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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One of the world’s most beloved performers, Arj Barker, will have you questioning the fundamental components of life itself with his upcoming performance at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre this Friday.

An ARIA Award Winning American comedian and actor, Arj’s performance intends to answer some of life’s biggest questions which will have audiences laughing and learning well into the night. The Mind Field has garnered much attention and five-star reviews from various publishments and critics, with Broadway Baby calling Arj’s performance, “excellent stand-up by an exceptional comedian”.

Arj has been deemed Australia’s funniest adopted Californian, and having spent over a decade living in Melbourne, he has come to understand the complexities of Australian culture, an understanding he comedically intertwines into his performances. Over his time living in Australia, Arj has become a household name, appearing on television shows including the original, Hey Hey It’s Saturday program, and performing in venues across the country.

2024 has presented itself as a big year for the talented comedian, from launching his brand new live stand-up show, The Mind Field, to landing his first lead role in a feature film, The Nut Farm. After selling out shows across 2023, Arj landed himself a spot on the star studded 2024 Brisbane Comedy Festival lineup earlier this year where he performed Power Hour – a compilation of his most beloved jokes over the past thirty years.

Arj will ignite the Proserpine Entertainment Centre into uncontrollable laughter this Friday, 15 November, with audiences advised to strap in to enjoy many humorous perspectives on many of life’s most questionable phenomenon’s like, “why do farts smell?”. A 15+ performance, The Mind Field will explore many profound concepts with a comedic tone and tickets to the once in a lifetime performance are available now on the Proserpine Entertainment Centre website.

You’ll laugh, and you’ll learn, but you’ll never look at anything the same once you enter… The Mind Field.

What: Arj Barker – The Mind Field.

When: Friday 15 November, 8pm to 9:30pm.

Where: Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 14 Main Street, Proserpine.

More Information: Arj Barker - The Mind Field – Proserpine Entertainment Centre.

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Arj Barker’s The Mind Field performance will entertain Proserpine Entertainment Centre audiences this Friday.

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Prepare for a wizardry evening of family fun, delicious eats, and a cult classic magical screening of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone this Friday!

As presented by the Whitsunday Regional Council, the Airlie Beach Foreshore will be buzzing with magical witches, wonderful wizards, and ordinary muggles as audiences are transported to the whimsical Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

Being the first movie in the infamous Harry Potter franchise, this Friday’s screening of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone will serve as the ultimate introduction for first-time wizards and witches, as well as a nostalgic way for those experienced in the world of magic to enjoy one of their most treasured films surrounded by friends and family.

Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone tells the tale of eleven-year-old Harry Potter as he receives the astonishing news that he is a wizard along with an invitation to attend the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Following in his parents footsteps, Harry learns of an entire magical society of wizards and witches as he navigates his new found talents, making friends with fellow students, Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley along the way.

The sorcerous screening will be accompanied by the culinary talents of Yummy Dum Dum Dumpling, What’s Poppin Popcorn, Tamaras Popcorn Buckets and Scrunchies, Skyhigh Candy, Ryans Hawaiian, Mr Whipsunday, Island Ice Popsicles and Mika, making for a wonderful family night out to top off a busy week!

Bring along your picnic blankets, pillows, and chairs for a memorable Friday family movie night!

What: Airlie Beach Movie Night – Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.

When: Friday 15 November, 6pm.

Where: Airlie Beach Foreshore.

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Photo Caption: Bring your friends and family along for a wonderful Friday movie night at the Airlie Beach Foreshore!

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This November the exquisite talents of an outstanding forty-piece orchestra will delight and impress audiences at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre with the commendable debut of My Favorite Things – Rodgers & Hammerstein Gala Concert. Lovers and appreciators of the arts are invited to treat and immerse themselves to a once in a lifetime cinematic experience celebrating the timeless work of the legendary music duo.

Along with forty professional musicians, international stars of the stage and screen will perform in the special anniversary concert filmed at London’s newly restored Theatre Royal Drury Lane. A sensational cinema screening, the performance was produced at the same venue which premiered the original West End productions of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Oklahoma!, Carousel, South Pacific, and The King and I.

This unmissable screening will take place at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre at both 11am and 3pm on Wednesday 20 November with tickets costing only $20 per person. Join fellow theatre lovers for a morning or afternoon of unforgettable melodies and showstopping performances and enjoy the dazzling talents which have made Rodgers & Hammerstein beloved for generations.  

What: My Favourite Things – Rodger & Hammerstein Gala Concert.

When: Wednesday 20 November, 11am & 3pm.

Where: Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 14 Main Street Proserpine.

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Proserpine State High School's 62nd Annual Awards Night was held on Tuesday celebrating the outstanding achievements of students in academics, sports, cultural and leadership pursuits. The evening was a testament to the dedication, commitment and determination of students, made possible by the support of their families, the guidance of teachers and the contribution of the entire school community. Students have consistently shown what it means to pursue excellence, demonstrating the school values.

Photo Captions

1. Year 12 student Alice Pini received the James Cook University Top Scholar Award.

2. Year 12 student Jacob Bell was awarded the AMPOL Best All Rounder Award.

3. Year 12 student Holly Perrin received the final award of the night celebrating her success as the "2024 Student of the Year". She is pictured with Proserpine State High School P&C President Natalie Stuchbree.

4. Principal Don McDermid is pictured with Year 12 student Reid Ogden who received the Peter Maywald Quiet Achiever Award.

5. Year 12 student Steven Heath was a worthy recipient of the Australian Defence Force Future Innovators Award.

6. The 2024 Dawson Medal recipient was Year 12 student Olivia Murphy who is pictured with Mayor Ry Collins.

7. Year 10 student Lillian Kelly was the recipient of the Hamilton Island Extraordinary Achievement Award.

8. Year 7 student Myka Kelly was the recipient of the 21st Century Learner Award.

9. Year 12 student Nathan Richards was the 2024 Citizenship Award recipient and is pictured with Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins on the evening.

10. Year 8 student Elyse Peterson was awarded the Encouragement Award.

11. Year 7 student Jack Oberg was named Sportsperson of the Year.

12. Year 12 students Lacey Linneweber and Sienna Thomson received the QATSIF Young Indigenous Leader Awards.

13. Year 10 students Wiremu Tairaki and Mitsuki Jaremus were named the St Vincent de Paul Scholarship recipients. They are pictured with St Vincent de Paul Cannonvale representatives Lane and Ron Telford.

14. Year 12 student Rio Withyman was named the Cindy Seawright Memorial Awardee. He is pictured with business sponsor Rebecca Stewart from Ecodrill.

15. Year 12 student Ebony Crighton received the 2024 Cultural Award that was presented by Proserpine State High School Head of Department The Arts Jenny Napier.

16. Year 10 student Danni Muller was the recipient of the Australian Defence Force Long Tan Youth Leadership Teamwork Award.

17. Year 9 student Millie Groom received the Junior Secondary All Rounder Award.

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Bowen State High School are celebrating after their Year 8 and 9 students completed their week in Mackay at the F1 in Schools State Final.

Principal Rob Harris is proud of both teams.

“A special congratulations goes to team Farina, who came 3rd overall in the state, for the Development Class aspect of the competition, and to team Distance, for receiving multiple “Best in Category” awards for the Development Class.” Said principal Rob Harris.

Teacher of Bowen State High School’s Development Class Kayne Fayolle said despite challenges, the teams came together and he is very proud of them.

“It is not always possible for teams to get on perfectly - there are bound to be conflicts with these sort of high-stress competitive projects - but these guys really managed themselves and how they interacted with each other fantastically,” said Mr Fayolle.

“I could not be more proud of how these students handled themselves.”

In the F1 in Schools Program students integrate learning from English, Mathematics, Physics, Business, Design & ICT. Students from Bowen State High School also learn time management skills.

In semester 1 the school run F1 in School classes in their curriculum, but in semester 2 teams who are successful in reaching the State Finals have to complete their F1 projects in their own time.

Mr Fayolle is delighted with the learning they achieved.

“This year, all teams representing our school at the State Final demonstrated fantastic work ethic, flexibility, interpersonal skills, communication and time management in being able to work away from school and access our school's after-school HUB program to be able to meet deadlines,” he said.

Some participants in F1 in School are even offered employment by the industry before they complete their studies. F1 in Schools students have been head hunted by the Airbus Design Centre in the United Kingdom and others have taken roles in Formula One teams.

This program is a great opportunity for students all across the world, to have Bowen State High School students in the State Finals is a huge accomplishment.

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Team Farina came 3rd overall in the state, for the Development Class aspect of the competition. Photo supplied

Team Distance received multiple “Best in Category” awards for the Development Class. Photo supplied

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The Whitsunday Social Craft Group is looking for any school supplies that you do not want. Whether that's pencils, erasers, rulers, sharpeners, pens, geometry sets, unused paper or books with blank pages they want to hear from you.

The craft group like to save items from landfill and deliver them to remote island communities and schools in the Solomon Islands. Here, students do not have many resources and appreciate all the support they can get.

While Tina Everett from the Whitsunday Social Craft group has looked into donating the used items to charities in Australia, she is constantly told that they don’t collect items, just money so that parents can purchase items.

She has, therefore, taken it into her own hands to collect and deliver these much-needed items to regional area’s which otherwise would get little resources.

Tina kindly requests that all items be dropped off at the Whitsunday Social Craft Group's Boomerang Bag shop, located at the Whitsunday Shopping Centre, near the steps. She extends her heartfelt thanks to all individuals for their generous donations and continued support.

Do you have any unwanted school supplies lying around? Pop into the Whitsunday Social Craft Group’s Boomerang Bag shop or text Tina for more information on: 0409428793

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Friday 8th November

Resource Industry Network Briefing
6.30am
This event is designed to offer a welcoming atmosphere for professionals in the region to connect, share insights, and cultivate meaningful relationships in an engaging environment. Taking place in the morning, November's industry event sets the perfect tone for a productive day ahead. Attendees can enjoy a leisurely networking experience over breakfast, fostering new connections and exploring potential collaborations in a relaxed setting.
Harrup Park Country Club

Crochet & Conversation
9am
Join Northern Beaches locals for a relaxed morning of crochet, coffee, and conversation at Beachfront Bar & Restaurant on Bucasia Esplanade. Bring your crochet tools or borrow from the communal box. All are welcome to connect, create, and enjoy the scenic surroundings and warm hospitality of this iconic spot.
Bucasia Beachfront Bar and Restaurant

LIVE Music  
6-9pm
Enjoy Jan Arns 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

Downtown: The Mod Musical
7pm
DOWNTOWN! flips through the years like a musical magazine and takes you back to the music, the fashion and the freedom of the 60's! Join this non-stop journey of terrific new arrangements of such chart-topping hits as "To Sir With Love," "Downtown," "You Don't Have to Say You Love Me," "Son of A Preacher Man," and "Goldfinger"… MMCP is presenting a limited run! So don't miss out! Grab your tickets via trybooking.com
Souths Leagues Club Mackay

Saturday 9th November

Mackay Region Speech Contests
8.30am
Join the Toastmasters Area 14 Conference and cheer on their talented speakers as they compete to take home "The 'Masters Cup." This is their members' annual opportunity to showcase their speaking skills to a wider audience. Speakers from Mackay's Toastmasters clubs will be competing against each other in four contests: humorous, inspirational, constructive feedback, and impromptu. This year's theme is Melbourne Cup, so remember your best hat/fascinator - there is a prize for best dressed!
Jubilee Community Centre

Victoria Park State School P&C Christmas Fair 2024
4pm
Save the date! The Victoria Park State School P&C Christmas Fair is back in 2024 and is set to be the biggest one yet.
Victoria Park State School

RSPCA Mackay Celebrating A Decade Of Dedication
6pm
RSPCA Mackay will be holding a Cocktail evening to celebrate their 10th birthday! With a live band and canapes served throughout the evening it will be a night to remember! Guests will hear from the RSPCA Mackay's shelter manager and other speakers, and attendees can also take part in the exciting raffle and silent auction - with all proceeds directly supporting RSPCA Mackay's work with vulnerable animals. Tickets available via Eventbrite.com
Magpies Sporting Club

Sunday 10th 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

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

Tuesday 12th November  

BMA Kidspace
10am
BMA Kidspace at Artspace Mackay offers a free, creative play program for children 0-5 years, featuring two open art sessions and live kids' music. Drop in anytime between 10am and 2pm for art-making, singing, and dancing, and stay as long as you like! First Art session: 10 - 11:30am. Music session: 11:30am - 12:15pm. Second Art session: 12:15 - 2pm
Artspace Mackay, Civic Precinct, Gordon Steet.

Book Of The Month – November
3.30pm
Artspace Mackay’s popular Book of the Month program invites visitors to enjoy a free, hands-on exploration of a featured artist’s book with guidance from Artspace Volunteers. This informal, inspiring event welcomes people of all ages and abilities to discover selected artists’ books from the Mackay Regional Council Art Collection.
Artspace Mackay, Civic Precinct, Gordon Steet.

Wednesday 13th 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 14th November  

Get It Together – Better Housing Together
10am
Better Together Housing is for women over 55 who are considering their housing options for now and, in the future, and want to explore more about shared housing. Whether you own your own home or are renting, there are many benefits to sharing a home with another woman in a similar life stage as you. If you are new to Better Together Housing, give Mackay Project Worker Lauren a call to answer any questions you might have on 0419 179 495.
Building 3 Ground Floor City Campus, CQUniversity

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

Mackay’s Business Networking Launch
5.45pm
Creating Collaborative Futures in Mackay - Join in on an exciting evening at the Mackay Business Networking Launch Party - a night dedicated to creating collaborative futures in the Mackay business community. Meet like-minded professionals, expand your network, and discover new opportunities in a relaxed and vibrant setting. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to connect, learn, and grow with fellow entrepreneurs.
Ocean International

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On Friday 15 November Proserpine Museum will be holding an Art Exhibition of established and emerging artists.

Organiser of the emerging artists art exhibition, Dawn Pearce has been an art teacher 30 years and says this art exhibition is all about helping aspiring artists and getting them on the wall.

“I want people to come out and enjoy themselves, have a little night out, and have a little think about what's out there. Giving the people a lift and an opportunity to exhibit their work, that's my most important thing,” said Dawn.

Dawn said that she likes to see art flourish and she also can see the potential that Proserpine has to offer, so she is extremely proud to be able to showcase this to the Whitsunday community.

The art expo will be opened by Councillor John Collins and will start at 6.30pm.

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What: Art Exhibition of Established and Emerging Artists
Where: Proserpine Museum
When: Friday 15 November from 6.30pm

Artwork by event organiser Dawn Pearce
Wake Up Mum
Birdlife

Images supplied

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It’s go-time! Your ultimate weekend escape is just a ticket away - so if you’re still dreaming of that spontaneous adventure, let the Airlie Beach Festival of Music make it a reality.  
Picture this: sandy toes and sunsets, non-stop music and a crowd of fans all living for the moment.
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Ready to join?  It’s as simple as asking your neighbour to feed the dog, rounding up your mates and dates and getting ready to party in paradise. Whether you’re in for a day, or planning a long weekend, pack your sunscreen and your dancing shoes because you’re about to have more fun than a kangaroo at a trampoline park!
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Venue Hop Like a Pro!  You can snag a ticket for one day from only $85, or go all in for the full three-day experience - why wouldn’t you? With main event festival tickets giving you access to all venues and free transport from our accommodation partners, they’re a total steal!  Heads up: Ticket prices jump after this Thursday, so get in quick – www.airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au
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Go VIP or Go Home!  Why settle for ordinary when you can elevate your adventure? Dive into the ultimate festival experience with exclusive perks like priority entry, a food and beverage package, access to VIP area and the chance to mingle with your favourite artists!
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A Town Alive with Music!  Several of the 13 venues will be hosting all-ages events and this is your chance to cheer on local talent, so bring the whole crew and experience the magic of live music together - because great music knows no age limits!  
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Hop On and Rock Out!  Enjoy the convenience of free bus services for main event ticket holders.  Why not buy a ticket that gives you all-access to the festival and saves your leg power for the dance floor! Check out the website for bus timetable and other FAQ’s – www.airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au
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Need Help Before Showtime? For any general enquiries, including accessibility, ticket inclusions and travel information, feel free to contact the team at info@airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au  They’re ready to help make your festival experience seamless!
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Already got your tickets?   Swing by for your wristbands.  Want to join last minute?  Grab your tickets here:
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Whitsunday Sailing Club
(Downstairs)
Thursday: 10 am – 7 pm
Friday: 9 am – 10 pm
Saturday: 9 am – 10 pm
Sunday: 9 am – 7 pm

Nomads Main Street Pop-up Office
Friday: 11:30 am – 3:30 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am - 3:30 pm

Still reading?  It’s time to pack your bags, grab those tickets and unleash your inner rockstar!

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The Passport to Airlie showcase which officially kicks of Airlie Beach Festival of Music this Friday, has brought together an electrifying lineup of Australia’s top emerging talent.  Here’s a look at the standout finalists, each bringing their own style and energy to the stage:
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Tom Neilson, the former front-man of Standby Empire and Queensland Music Award winner, has completely reinvented himself - stepping away from an electronic sound into a sound more based in folk-pop tales of love.  Join him on a heartfelt exploration of love, loss and the human experience.
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Phoebe Over takes inspiration from the likes of Lily Allen, Jorja Smith and Billie Eilish and the stories she shares through her music have that down-to-earth, real-life quality that makes her music instantly relatable to her growing number of fans.
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Space & Ages are a Brisbane based powerhouse with a cheeky twist, proudly dubbing themselves "your mum's favourite band."  The four piece have just unleashed a love-drunk indie-rock anthem, ‘Trial & Error’ and if you’re looking for music that’s both catchy and full of attitude, this band is one to watch!  
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Thirst Trap, the electrifying 5-piece from Australia’s Byron Bay, boast a distinctive sound that blends hip-hop rhythms, heavy rock and reggae infusions, showcasing their versatile musical palette.  Their live performances are a must-see, delivering an unforgettable experience that resonates with the energy and dynamism of their unique sound.
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Ana, a female fronted symphonic metal band, blend various genres and influences, culminating together in an experience that is suspenseful, mysterious, soulful, and rocking.  Their songs are personal. Their songs are yours.
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Noah Davis is a former Top 24 contestant on Australian Idol and brings a distinctive vocal style and original arrangements using his loop pedal.  As a new upcoming artist with a dream to become a full-time singer songwriter, he believes that the music that he brings to the table is fresh, easy to listen to and has an upbeat vibe.  
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Hilz has been making music for longer than she can remember and her sound has been described as a fresh and modern take on pop with commanding powerhouse vocals, earwormy melodies and searing “tongue in cheek” lyrics, all augmented by an infectious punk attitude and kick ass stage presence.  Hilz will draw you in and make you an instant fan.
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Slippery Gypsy brings an edgy rock energy with a wild and uninhibited spirit. Their raw, gritty style channels the classic rock sound while keeping things fresh and unpredictable.
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The Corb are the rare combination of a father daughter duo, offering unique harmonies, rhythm and soul.  Prayer Corby is a 23 year old singer/songwriter, playing festivals such as Bass in the Grass, Seabreeze Festival and more.  Doug Corby is a well-known and established drummer singer with 40 years of experience playing music across the nation.  
Get ready for a full-throttle blast of fresh talent!  Here’s the kicker - roll into the festival grounds and enter the main tent before 4pm this Friday and you’re in the running to snag a VIP upgrade for you and a mate. That’s right - rockstar access with a food and beverage package to keep the party pumping!
For all the details, hit up www.airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au – your ticket to the ultimate weekend awaits!

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Colonial Palms Motor Inn will transform into a live music paradise for the entire Airlie Beach Festival of Music weekend when it combines its tropical resort style atmosphere with sensational performances from a host of talented musicians.

The stunning deck area provides a beautiful setting for music, and many people will have already attended regular Jazz sessions which happen once a month on a Sunday. But this weekend is the venue’s debut at the Airlie Beach Festival of Music.

With chilled out performances starting at 9am on Friday 8 November, Colonial Palms Motor Inn is welcoming many great musicians, including talented songstress Karen Jacobsen.

Performing at 11.30am on Friday 8 November at Colonial Palms Motor Inn, Karen will ignite the stage with powerful vocals and piano-driven songs.

She has released a dozen albums, including the ARIA Awards 2024 nominated Misogyny Opus.

Karen has shared the stage with industry greats like Norah Jones, Neil Sedaka, Jon English, Cyndi Lauper and Christopher Cross, and performed national anthems in front of thousands of people.

Karen has many original songs, but the Airlie Beach Festival of Music attendees will also be thrilled to hear that she will also be bringing songs from her brand-new album ‘I Was a Man’.

Karen said the 10 original songs on the album vary in depth, with themes ranging from equality, love, loss and freedom to listening to our inner voice.

With cinematic and piano driven performances by Karen, the melodies are timeless, and the recordings feature lush and layered female vocals. This body of work explores the intersection of songwriting and spirituality, with many of the songs inspired by and even arriving during Karen's meditation practice.

When asked about the message behind her music, Karen says “I am in the most creative period of my career, and on this record sharing themes of equality, love, loss, freedom and listening to our inner voice.”

Karen’s music is inspirational and as regular performer at the Airlie Beach Festival of Music, she knows how to gauge the crowd.

See Karen Jacobsen light up Colonial Palms Motor Inn and other venues around Airlie Beach during this year’s Airlie Beach Festival of Music.

Karen Jacobsen with her powerful vocals, Photo credit: Mackay and Whitsunday Life
The deck at Colonial Palms Motor Inn
Photos sourced

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As a first-time venue host at this year’s Airlie Beach Festival of Music, Sidewalk Cafe has numerous musical acts over the weekend, and they are all exceptional.

Known for their delicious breakfasts, friendly service, great coffee, cocktails and laid-back atmosphere, Sidewalk Cafe is an ideal spot to replenish and watch live music over the festival weekend.

Performing for the first time at Sidewalk Cafe during the Airlie Beach Festival of Music is Rebelquin, hitting the stage on Friday 8 November at 9am.

Rebelquin is a local and talented musician who is no stranger to the Airlie Beach Festival of Music, having performed numerous times.

She captivates audiences with a distinctive fusion of blues and indie rock.

Rebelquin loves music and it comes through in her performance.

“Music connects us all together and is always there for us through the highs and lows,” she shared.

“If I am going through a rough time, there is always a song that makes me feel good and I know if that singer or songwriter can get through this, so can I, it reminds us we belong and that we are not alone at all.

“This is also what I love about performing, if I can connect to just one person and make them not feel alone, I have done my job.”

Don’t miss Rebelquin performing Sidewalk Cafe’s first gig at the Airlie Beach Festival of Music and stick around for more amazing artists.

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Rebelquin performs regularly at the Airlie Beach Festival of Music, and this year she is performing at Sidewalk Café. Photo sourced: Facebook

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