The Mackay Musical Comedy Players are thrilled to announce their latest production, the highly acclaimed musical revue Closer Than Ever, created by Maltby and Shire. This evocative two-act show will be performed at St Patrick's College Mackay - Senior Campus Hall for a limited run on Friday, September 20, and Saturday, September 21, 2024.

Closer Than Ever is renowned for its poignant and personal storytelling, exploring themes of love, security, and the search for happiness in today’s complex world. Each song in the revue acts as a narrative, drawing from the real-life experiences of friends and stories shared with the creators.

The musical traverses a broad spectrum of themes, including aging, mid-life crises, second marriages, role reversals within families, the dynamics of working couples, and the trials of unrequited love.

The production features a talented cast comprising both seasoned members of the Comedy Players and exciting new faces. Returning to the stage are veteran performers Danielle McCully, Anthony Edwards, and Bernie Camilleri-Cheng. Joining them are fresh talents including Alex Gleeson and Kristen Finlay, whose new perspectives and energy are sure to add a dynamic flair to the performance.

With Director, Tonia Beckmann driving this show along with the talented Faye Fortescue as choreographer and Chantelle Kay as Musical Director, Mackay audiences are sure to be in for a treat!

Ms Beckman praised the cast for its array of talent, saying, “It’s been fantastic working with such a talented cast who really know how to perform the tenderness of new relationships and the bittersweet moments of broken relationships and loss in the songs from the show.”

Join us in celebrating the rich history of Mackay Musical Comedy Players, who have previously delighted audiences with productions like Shrek, Mamma Mia, and The Addams Family.

Each ticket to Closer Than Ever includes an individual platter, enhancing the theatrical experience with a touch of culinary delight. Given this unique offering, ticket availability is limited, with the purchase cutoff set for September 16, 2024.

To secure your seats and enjoy an unforgettable evening of musical theatre, visit the Mackay Musical Comedy Players’ official website or by visiting https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1256679 .

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to see a moving and memorable performance that promises both entertainment and reflection while supporting local art and culture.

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Cast from MCMP’s previous production, Into The Woods

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Mackay VIEW Club is on the lookout for new members who want to give back to their community and make new connections with women in the area.

VIEW, which stands for Voice, Interests and Education of Women, is a network of close to 300 clubs and over 14,000 women throughout Australia. It provides a place for women to connect in the community, enjoy social activities, and develop lasting friendships – all while supporting the work of children’s education charity, The Smith Family.

Mackay VIEW Club representative Brenda McLean highlighted the fulfilling experience of being a club member and said, “I’ve always believed in giving back and I’ve met so many amazing people that I would’ve never had the opportunity to meet if it wasn’t for the VIEW club.

“We’re very social and we do lots of things together, it’s just a great way to connect with others and help students in need.”

Mackay VIEW Club President Sandra Janson said this year is the perfect time to join VIEW as social events are back on the calendar.

“The rising cost of living has had an even greater impact on those already doing it tough, parents should not have to choose between putting dinner on the table or buying their child a uniform for school.

“This is why it is so important that we can help children experiencing disadvantage with their education through the Smith Family.”

Women of all backgrounds and ages are welcomed and anyone interested in becoming a member can call Sandra Janson on 0412653068; or Brenda McLean on 0409724285; email mackay.viewclub@gmail.com or visit www.view.org.au for further information.

Mackay VIEW Club is part of a not-for-profit national women's organisation with over 14,000 members in close to 300 communities exclusively supporting the children’s education charity The Smith Family. Photo supplied

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On August 3, 2024, the streets from Mackay Harbour to Seaforth became a whirl of vibrancy and colour as participants united in bright tutus for the 2024 Tutu Challenge in support of ovarian cancer research.

Miss Diamond International Finalist of 2024, Jennifer-Lee Houseman, who is widely recognised for her modelling and dancing talents, organised the event, and the day turned out to be a powerful demonstration of solidarity in the fight against one of the most common cancers affecting women.

Under the banner of #loveyourovaries, the challenge aimed to highlight the importance of ovarian cancer awareness, as nearly 20,000 Australian women are diagnosed with the disease each year. Miss JLee's efforts were part of a growing movement to shine a light on this vital cause.

Participants were greeted by JLee, who radiantly wore a bright red tutu.

"Her passion was contagious," said her proud mother, Jacqueline Houseman.

"She handed out steel badges to each participant, a token of remembrance and a symbol of their shared commitment to the cause."

Miss JLee's dedication was evident throughout the day, with the event raising $500 for ovarian cancer research. The convoy, made up of bikes and cars, embarked on a route that was as much about the journey as it was about the destination.

Along the way, participants stopped at various locations to complete challenges designed to test their resilience and build connections with those involved.

From bowling at the Seaforth Bowls Club to climbing palm trees and hunting for a vintage 1946 Excelsior, each task was met with enthusiasm and fun.

In a playful twist, participants collected Scrabble tiles at each stop, adding an element of strategy to the day's events, which culminated in a final Scrabble game at the end of the challenge.

As the sun set, the event concluded with a celebration of achievements and prizes were awarded, however Ms Houseman noted that "the greatest prize of all was the sense of community and shared purpose that permeated the event."

Looking ahead, Jennifer-Lee is already planning another fundraising event for 2025. The event, which will undoubtedly involve tutus, is anticipated to be another fun-filled day aimed at raising further awareness and support for ovarian cancer research.

“We invite everyone to mark their calendars for the Tutu Challenge 2025, set to take place on the second weekend of August 2025, promising an even bigger and brighter event,” Ms Houseman said.

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Miss Jlee Houseman – Miss Diamond International Finalist 2024 raised $500 for ovarian cancer research at the 2024 Tutu Challenge. Photos supplied

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By Hannah McNamara

Australia's beloved musical icon, Marcia Hines, is bringing her highly anticipated Still Shining: The 50th Anniversary Concert Tour to Mackay in 2024!

In an interview with Mackay Life, Marcia spoke about her musical journey over the years and touched on her upcoming tour to the Mackay region. She said, “I feel really blessed that people still want to come see the show and hear me sing… I’m stoked about it.”

This exciting event will celebrate Marcia’s incredible five-decade-long career and Mackay will have the chance to witness her legendary talent live. The Mackay concert is scheduled as part of a national tour that kicked off in Mandurah, Western Australia, on 8 August 2024 and is set to make its way to Queensland, including a much-anticipated stop in Mackay.

Still Shining honours Marcia’s journey from her arrival in Australia over 50 years ago to join the cast of Hair to becoming one of the nation’s most cherished musical artists. With 22 albums and over 2.6 million copies sold, Marcia’s impact on the Australian music scene has been nothing short of memorable.

Among her long list of accolades, Marcia says her most memorable achievements was when she won Queen of Pop as well as being awarded AM and receiving an induction into the Aria Hall Of Fame.

Marcia is thrilled to be in Mackay and noted that she is particular eager to sing with her good friend Graeme Connors.

“I hope to be singing on stage with my good friend Graeme Connors on the night that I’m up there.

“I’m just happy to be coming up to Mackay and hopefully people will come and have a nice night out.”  

Fans in Mackay will be treated to a night of unforgettable performances, featuring some of her greatest hits and songs from her celebrated career.

After starring in the internationally acclaimed Velvet stage production, she will also take on the role of Teen Angel in the upcoming John Frost/Crossroads production of GREASE in 2024.

In addition to her live performances, Marcia recently released Still Shining - The 50th Anniversary Ultimate Collection in June 2023, followed by The Gospel According to Marcia in November 2023, which celebrates her musical roots in gospel and her childhood in Boston.

Mackay fans won’t want to miss this special opportunity to see Marcia Hines live on her Still Shining tour as she continues to inspire audiences with her powerful voice, dynamic stage presence and enduring legacy.

For tickets and more information, visit www.marciahines.com.au

What: Still Shining: The 50th Anniversary Concert Tour – Marcia Hines
When: Saturday, September 21
Where: The MECC
Tickets: www.marciahines.com.au

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Don’t miss this opportunity to see Marcia Hines live in Mackay as she prepares to bring her Still Shining: The 50th Anniversary Concert Tour to town in 2024. Photo supplied

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September
6-8 Whitsundays Writers Festival
6-8 White on Whitehaven, Whitehaven Beach, from 9am
6 Don River Dash Community Night, Bowen Showgrounds, from 4pm
7 Don River Dash 300, Telegraph Road Spectator Area, from 8am
7 Colour Run for Child Protection, Coral Sea Marina Gardens, from 9am
7 Mini Roller Disco, PCYC Whitsunday, from 10am
7 Kath and Kim Drag Bingo, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 8pm
8 Whitsunday Thrift Club Market, Kipara Rainforest Retreat, from 9am
8 Memorial Service, World Suicide Prevention Day, Kevla Espresso & Health Food Bar, from 8:30–11am
10 BBQ Breakfast, World Suicide Prevention Day, Bowen Town Square, from 7-       10:30am
10 Proserpine Memorial Service, World Suicide Prevention Day, Pioneer Park, 3-     5:30pm
13 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Trolls & Jumanji, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
13 Celtic Illusion, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
17 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
20 Airlie Beach Movie Night – The Addams Family and Dumb & Dumber, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
21 Mayor’s Charity Ball, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 5pm
27 Children are Stinky, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 11am
27 Children are Stinky, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 1pm
29 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am

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

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

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

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Friday 6 September
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Mat Stokes (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Troy Morrison (8pm – 12am)
KC’s: Chev Wilson (from 8pm)
Whitsunday Sailing Club: Live Music (5pm - 8pm)

Saturday 7 September
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Joe Cocker (2pm – 5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers Band (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: DJ Night (8pm – 12am)
KC’s: Corey Harris (from 8pm)
Whitsunday Sailing Club: Live Music (1pm - 4pm)
Whitsunday Sailing Club: Live Music (5pm - 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: Live Music (from 1pm)

Sunday 8 September
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Joe Cocker (2pm – 5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Mat Stokes (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Mike Vaughan (4pm-8pm)
KC’s: Loui Battour (from 8pm)
Whitsunday Sailing Club: Live Music (1pm - 4pm)

Monday 9 September
KC’s: Loui Battour (from 8pm)
Thursday 12 September
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Chris Booroff (6.30pm – 9.30pm)

Tuesday 10 September
KC’s: Josiah (from 8pm)

Wednesday 11 September
KC’S: Ronnie Croker (from 8pm)

Thursday 12 September
KC’s: Ronnie Croker (From 8pm)

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The annual White On Whitehaven event takes place on Whitehaven Beach this weekend. From Friday to Sunday guests will be whisked over to Whitsunday Island to enjoy a decadent afternoon of feasting and festivity.

Upon arrival guests are treated to a glass of French champagne and canapés including fresh oysters and salmon sashimi.

This is followed by a sumptuous barbeque lunch made with the freshest local produce, indulge in gourmet seafood, BBQ meats and salad.

All guests are encouraged to wear white, to keep with the white-on-white theme which makes it a wonderful spectacle. If White on Whitehaven sounds like your type of day out, be sure to look for last minute tickets this year.

What: White on Whitehaven
Where: Whitehaven Beach, Pick up – Port of Airlie
When: 9am – 5pm Friday 6 September, Saturday 7 September, Sunday 8 September

Photos supplied

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The Australian ABBA Tribute Show are becoming regulars at the Airlie Beach Hotel, and yet they always bring in an amazing high energy crowd every time.

Band Manager Sam Bennett, who plays Bjorn in the show, says he and the rest of the band always enjoy performing here in Airlie Beach.

“We always love our trip to Airlie Beach itself, it’s a well-deserved break in the sunshine from the very unpredictable Melbourne weather,” said Sam.

“Everyone is always on holiday time there and it’s very easy to perform to a crowd that is there either on holiday or living that holiday lifestyle.”

Although Sam says he loves performing in front of the relaxed and fun Airlie Beach crowd because of the holiday lifestyle, it’s also due to the hits they perform too.

Sam says they perform all the favourites but also play some B-sides and hidden gems that the band love.

All members in the band have a theatre background and Sam believes it helps them deliver an authentic ABBA show for the crowd.

“I think doing an ABBA tribute show is the same thing as theatre, you're performing as a character,” explained Sam.

“We perform as Agnetha, Anni-Frid, Benny and Björn, we are a character, we have a story and a history.

“We all have our own connection to these songs, both in reality as performers, but also in characters.”

Having a strong stage presence combined with the catchy ABBA tunes makes it an unbelievably fun afternoon.

“I am always so excited to come to perform at Airlie Beach,” exclaimed Sam.

“It's always a big crowd, filled with people that plan to come there and people that are just walking through the street, see that we're playing and end up staying for two hours watching the show.

“It's always such a fun and high energy afternoon, so if anyone is even remotely near the Airlie Beach Hotel on the Saturday and Sunday, please come down. It's a free show, if you don't like it you can leave, but I doubt that you won't like it.”

What: SOS ABBA Tribute
Where: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
When: Saturday 14 September 2pm – 5.30pm & Sunday 15 September 2pm – 5.30pm
Tickets: You don’t need any! It’s completely free!

The Australian ABBA Tribute Show, Photos supplied

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

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

Photo credit: Bronwyn Garland & Rion

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Variety Victoria CEO Mandy Burns

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

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“We are going to enjoy a weekend there.”

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

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

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