November
8-10 Airlie Beach Festival of Music
8-10 36-hour Run Challenge, Whitsunday Martial Arts, from 7pm
9 Mini Roller Disco, PCYC Whitsunday, from 10am
14 Adult Roller Skating Class, PCYC Whitsunday, from 6pm
15 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
15 Moulin Rouge Soiree, Whisper Gin Bar & Restaurant, from 6pm
15 Arj Barker – The Mind Field, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 8pm
19 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
21 Adult Roller Skating Class, PCYC Whitsunday, from 6pm
24 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am
24          Breast and Prostate Cancer Awareness Day, Proserpine Golf Club, from 10am

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
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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On November 5th, the Airlie Beach Hotel will host a special event designed to make you feel like you are part of the racing action of the Melbourne Cup.

While the cup is on, get ready to moonwalk down memory lane and groove to the electrifying beats of two music legends.

You may remember returning band ‘SOULCUTZ,’ and their unforgettable journey on X Factor in 2014, where they made it to the top 12. Get ready to moonwalk down memory lane as these musical legends are back at the Airlie Beach Hotel to pay tribute to the King of Pop, Michael Jackson, and today’s pop sensation, Bruno Mars, to get you ready for the fantastic atmosphere of the Melbourne Cup.

Experience the magic of Michael Jackson’s timeless classics like “Billie Jean,” “Thriller,” and “Smooth Criminal” which SOULCUTZ will bring to life throughout the day's duration.

From the iconic dance moves to the signature fashion, it’s a journey back in time that will leave you mesmerised.

SOULCUTZ don't, stop there however, and encourage you to get your dancing shoes ready as they transition to the contemporary hits of Bruno Mars. With chart-toppers such as “Uptown Funk,” “24K Magic,” and “Just the Way You Are,” to help you get grooving to the latest pop sensations.

Soulcutz's performance kicks off at 10am, and there’s a drink package included, so be sure to arrive early!

After being taken through the times by SOULCUTZ, get ready for soul music songstress Lisa Hunt’s ‘Forever Soul’ show.  Lisa will grace the stage with her powerful voice and heartfelt performances, soothing your spirit with her timeless soul tunes. But that’s not all—she’ll also have you on your feet, dancing and grooving to the irresistible rhythms to make your day even more enjoyable.

If the live music isn't enough to get you in the Melbourne Cup spirit, then the Airlie Beach Hotel also has a variety of sweeps, free raffles, phantom calls, party games, fashions of the footpaths and load of prizes and surprises throughout the day to keep you entertained.

If you are worried about getting to and from the venue, Airlie Beach Hotel has you covered providing two courtesy buses which will be running from 9 am. Additionally, the TAB will open at 8 am so you can place all your bets nice and early.

Head on down to the Airlie Beach Hotel to celebrate the Melbourne Cup in style!

WHAT: Melbourne Cup Special Event
WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Tuesday 5th November 2024
Tickets: Purchase tickets at Whitsunday Tickets:  https://www.whitsundaytickets.com.au/

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Friday 1st November

Crochet, Coffee and Conversation
9am
Drop in for a morning of crocheting, coffee and conversation with a friendly group of Northern Beaches locals at Beachfront Bar & Restaurant on Bucasia Esplanade. 
BYO crochet tools or you’re welcome to borrow from the communal box 
Bucasia Esplanade, Beachfront Bar and Restaurant.

Australia A and India A Men’s Cricket
10am, 31st October – 3rd November
Get ready for an exciting four-day match between the Australia A and India A Men's teams! This match is part of the biggest Indian summer ever, with the hugely supported Indian men’s and women’s teams playing several matches in Australia. Entry: FREE for everyone!
Great Barrier Reef Arena

Art Party Afternoons
3pm
Do you have an existing arts project that you are looking to finish? Are you looking to meet up socially with other artists in an accessible environment? Art Party Afternoons recognises all of the unfinished projects (crochet, painting, craft, zine, artist book, comic, scribbles…whatever you are working on!). The monthly art hangs will connect a like-minded community to get creative inspo and provide you a place to make. Come and make art and have conversations with other artists from the community. Art Party Afternoons is a self-led event - bring your own project and share a cup of tea and a chat!
Crossroad Arts Mackay

The Travelling Film Festival
From 6.30pm
Film & Arts Mackay is pleased to support the 2024 Travelling Film Festival, celebrating 50 years in 2024. TFF Mackay showcases an exciting line-up of international and local films. THERE’S STILL TOMORROW, the SFF 2024 Official Competition Winner, the Italian box office smash and witty melodrama follows an industrious woman in post-WWII Rome. Film and Arts Mackay is proud to be co-hosting the Opening Night event to kick off the weekend in style. Join in for a glass of sparkling and some nibbles before the film from 6:30pm. Tickets via https://www.sff.org.au/tff/program/mackay
BCC Cinemas Mackay Mount Pleasant

Saturday 2nd November

Mackay Parkrun
7am
Mackay parkrun - it's you against the clock! Mackay parkrun is a FREE, timed, 5km run, jog or walk put on by the community for the community at 7am every Saturday morning in Mackay. Meet near the Botanic Gardens Playground to start. Head to website to register - https://www.parkrun.com.au/
Botanic Gardens Playground

Zonta’s Mackay Women Annual High Tea
9.30am
Gather your friends, family, and colleagues for an elegant and uplifting morning at the Annual Mackay Women's High Tea! In addition to indulging in delightful food and drinks, you’ll be inspired by incredible guest speakers and treated to unique entertainment from Rhythm Business, led by Jennifer and Karen. Through the transformative power of rhythm, conversation, and play, they’ll guide you in an interactive experience designed to boost wellbeing and foster both personal and professional growth.
Ocean International

Grind Shrine Halloween
5.30pm
It’s that time of year again, HALLOWEEN and to celebrate Grind Shrine Sk8 Shop will be hosting their annual jam at the Sugar Bowl skate park Mackay! Kicking off from 5:30 - 6:30pm with a beginner/intermediate group learn to skate session for $25pp followed by a FREE BBQ & treats. From there they will begin with their usual antics running a number of jam style events such as our - Death race, switch race, last man standing, game of S.K.A.T.E, highest Ollie, longest grind and best tricks on multiple obstacles with PRIZES for best dressed and more!
Sugar Bowl Skate Park Mackay

Sunday 3rd 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 with Mustang Sally 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. TattoosbyColin is also present at the hotel until 6th November so come on and down and witness the ultimate fusion of art, travel and self—expression!
Pinnace Family Hotel

Monday 4th November  

Community Engagement Session- Muller Playground Renewal
4pm
Join the Mackay Regional Council at the upcoming community engagement session to have your say on new playground equipment for Muller Park. Not able to attend the session? You can still be involved by providing your feedback via the online survey at www.connectingmackay.com.au/muller-park-playground. 
The survey will be open from Monday, November 4, 2024 at 11.59pm to Monday, November 25, 2024 at 11.59pm.
Muller Park, 88 Boundary Road, Ooralea

Tuesday 5th November  

Melbourne Cup Luncheon
11.30am
Live race coverage in Oceans Bar & Restaurant with chef curated canapé selections to share with your group & a glass of bubbles on arrival! Prepayment is required upon purchase. Call 4957 2044 to book your table!
Ocean International

Wednesday 6th 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 7th November  

November Coffee Catch Up
7.15am
Start the day with great coffee and even better company and join Cool Mango Salad Bar on Thursday 7 November from 7:15am for a monthly coffee catch up. A great opportunity to catch up with likeminded go-getters in a casual environment. Stay as little or as long as you’d like! 
Cool Mango Salad Bar

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

Community Rhythm Circle
5.30pm
Everyone is welcome in the Community Rhythm Circle. Whether you're an experienced percussionist or have never picked up a drum before. The goal is to create a space where people can come together, and share some joy through rhythm and play. 
They’ve got the drums, you just need to bring your smile and a willingness to join in the fun. Spend some time checking out the fabulous Mackay Riverside Market and enjoy the live music vibe created my Jamesley and the other talented musicians
Bluewater Quay/Riverside Markets

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Last weekend, Queens Park was transformed into a vibrant global party for Global Grooves 2024, an event that promised a feast for the senses. Held on Saturday, October 26, this free family event showcased cultural dances, global music, traditional attire, and mouthwatering food from around the world.
Twelve cultural dance groups and bands entertained the crowds, creating an electric atmosphere filled with rhythm and celebration. Attendees also had the chance to participate in two exciting workshops focused on Latin dance moves and rhythm drumming, while a dozen market stalls showcased global-inspired creations and local assistance programs.
The event featured an exceptional variety of performances, including Latin, Irish, Thai, Māori, Filipino, Chinese, Papua New Guinean, and Aboriginal dance acts. The lively stage lineup included the unique sounds of Piping Mad, a band known for fusing rock music with bagpipes, as well as The Solomon Black Coral Band, who recently reunited to share traditional songs from their Solomon Islands homeland.
A strong emphasis was placed on First Nations culture, with the Aboriginal Dance Group Tchundal Malar headlining the event. Their performance captivated the audience, utilising rhythm, didgeridoo playing, dance, traditional dress, smoke, and fire to convey their tribal stories.
Food lovers rejoiced as an array of vendors offered a diverse range of traditional dishes, from dumplings and ribs to woodfired pizza, lechon (pig on a spit), and various curries. Global Grooves is a fantastic initiative by the Mackay Regional Council and the MECC, celebrating the rich tapestry of cultures within the community.

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Photo credit: Cherrie Hughes

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In a country where festivals are folding like deck chairs in a cyclone, the Airlie Beach Festival of Music continues to thrive, celebrating its 12th anniversary in the coming days.  With a line-up that’s bigger, bolder and louder than ever, this year’s event promises to be the ultimate mash-up of rock royalty, local legends and rising stars.
With over 50 acts across the five-day program, the festival proudly welcomes an incredible line-up featuring classic British rock legends ‘Sweet’, the iconic rock powerhouse ‘Rose Tattoo’, ‘80s favourites ‘Pseudo Echo’ and the much-anticipated return of ‘Southern Sons’. Whether you’re wanting to relive the golden years of music or discover fresh sounds, this year’s roster is a musical buffet serving up something for everyone, including the talented ‘Sandi Thom’, known for her hit single, 'I Wish I Was a Punk Rocker’.
The festival kicks off on Thursday 7th November, with an Opening Party at Magnums, a legendary local venue that sets the tone for the weekend.  From there the fun continues, with the Passport to Airlie national showcase finals on Friday 8th November, where nine up-and-coming acts from across Australia will compete under the big tent for a golden ticket to rock the main stage next year and cement their place in Aussie music history.  
It’s not just entertainment, it’s a journey and to further enhance the experience, gypsy rock duo, ‘Salt and Steel’ will be delivering a festival first, rocking their solar-powered motorhome and delivering stripped back acoustic tunes and artist chats in between main sets.  The legendary Fish D'Vine, a long-time staple of the Whitsunday food scene, will be bringing its iconic flavour to the festival with a vibrant eat street, serving up seafood delights and more for those who know good food is just as important as good vibes.  And to make sure everyone’s in on the action, accessibility features - crafted in partnership with Endeavour Foundation - ensure no one’s left out of the rhythm.  
The festival then takes off into high gear over the 9th and 10th November, bringing fan favourites to the stage including the dynamic ‘Reece Mastin’, the unstoppable ‘Ash Grunwald’ and powerhouse ‘Christine Anu’, plus a slew of other acts that are sure to keep the party rocking to sun down.  
“I’m so excited to finally experience Airlie Beach Festival of Music for the first time! I’ve heard incredible things about the energy and the crowd and performing with the ocean as my backdrop is going to be something special,” said Christine, she is ready to bring her signature energy and soulful sound to the festival.
The celebration doesn’t stop there and on Monday 11th November, the festival heads to Northerlies for the ultimate afterparty.  It’s where the festival’s spirit lives on and the ‘Matty Rogers Band’, ‘Bondi Cigars’ and a roster of local legends come together for one last jam.
The team have cracked the code to staying power - mixing a long weekend of music, magic and a bit of coastal mischief to create a festival that refuses to fade, no matter what the industry throws at it.  
Whether you’re up for a one-day escape or a three-day music marathon, there’s a ticket for every taste on sale now: www.airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au

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The Airlie Beach Festival of Music main-stage boasts stunning Coral Sea views

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Shaun Diver, a musician with almost 20 years experience, is performing at KC’s during the Airlie Beach Festival of Music and the energy he brings to Airlie Beach is unmatched.

Shaun has been performing casually for almost two decades but within the last five years, he has transitioned into a full-time musician.

His notoriety was catapulted into the next stratosphere when he won the Battle of the Bands in Springfield Lakes as a solo act.

Shaun recalls that winning the four-month competition made him realise he could pursue music full time.

Now a regular performer at KC’s, Shaun is booked up until the end of next year, and is really enjoying playing in front of crowds.

“The interaction with the crowd is my favourite,” said Shaun.

“When they're all singing along, everyone's into it, and they're yelling out songs, and I can play them - that's the best bit!

“It’s like you’re part of the party and I love it!”

At his upcoming performance at KC’s, Shaun said he will be performing Aussie pub rock classics, plus his own original songs.

He’s been performing at KC’s regularly for three years and he loves the intimate feel of this much-loved local establishment.

“Because it's a smallish venue you have to interact and if you don't want to be part of it, you wouldn't be in there, so everyone that's in there wants to be there,” Shaun added.

“KC’s is the best venue in Airlie Beach, that's what I love!”

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Shaun Diver, Photo source: Facebook

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There’s so much on offer at the Airlie Beach Festival of Music this year and for the first time ever, the Band of the 1st Battalion, the Royal Australian Regiment (RAR Band) will be delivering electrifying roving performances through the heart of Airlie Beach.
Well-known throughout the region, this dynamic ensemble, inspired by the New Orleans’ street music vibe, will be pumping out funky instrumental covers and signature tunes in short, high-energy sets that are sure to create a festival party conga line.
Catch them as they march down the main street, starting at Magnums at midday on Saturday and Sunday.
Keep an ear out for the band’s 'Pep' ensemble as they will also be popping up at different locations, creating bursts of excitement before moving on to their next stage.
With no vocals needed and a sound powerful enough to fill the streets, each 20-minute set promises to be a colourful, crowd engaging addition to this year's festivities.

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Joining the headliner lineup at the Airlie Beach Festival of Music are the legendary Sweet from the UK, primed to unleash their glam rock anthems and the iconic Aussie synth-pop sensation Pseudo Echo, set to electrify the stage!
Sweet, a flamboyant force of nature, is no stranger to the spotlight, delivering timeless hits like "Ballroom Blitz" and "Fox on the Run."  Their high-octane performance promises to celebrate rock's glory days, with unforgettable melodies and powerhouse vocals that will have the crowd singing along and reliving the magic of yesteryear.
But hold onto your hats! Pseudo Echo will catapult you back to the vibrant '80s with their infectious sound. Known for their dazzling synth riffs and irresistible hooks, they’ll be serving up crowd favourites like "Funky Town" and "Listening."  Prepare to dance as they transform the festival into a pulsating time capsule of nostalgia.
With over 50 acts ready to rock the Whitsundays over the five-day festival program, this is your golden ticket to an epic weekend.  Grab your last chance tickets online now and get ready to rock! www.airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au

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From cosy corners to stunning seaside spots, 13 venues across Airlie Beach are gearing up to offer a unique experience as part of the Airlie Beach Festival of Music.  New to this years’ program are Colonial Palms and Sidewalk Café, both set to feature a diverse lineup that includes everything from folk to rock, ensuring there’s something for every music lover.

Owned by the dynamic duo, Chris and Rachel, Sidewalk Café serves up a menu that’s as delightful as their personalities.  With their infectious energy and a lineup that promises to entertain, Sidewalk Café isn’t just a festival pit stop; it’s a vibrant hub of flavour and fun where you can sip, savour and soak up the sounds.  
Meanwhile Colonial Palms is a tropical oasis and features a fully licensed restaurant and bar, with breathtaking views of Boathaven Bay and Mandalay Point. Not only will the place come alive with an incredible roster of talent, it’s also the perfect spot to unwind and refuel before or after your festival adventures.
Whether you’re chasing high-energy performances, enjoying a laid-back afternoon by the water, or diving into the very heartbeat of Airlie Beach, the main strip will be alive with other iconic venues like Magnums, Beaches and Boaties, turning the whole town into a pulsating party zone. With so many options and not enough time in the day, you're guaranteed an unforgettable escape that showcases the vibrant spirit of this coastal paradise.
Find the full list of venue partners and their entertainment program at www.airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au

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In just under two weeks, the Airlie Beach Festival of Music kicks off with the Official Opening Party at Magnums on Thursday 7th November. The night will burst to life with Jackson Dunn, a seasoned performer renowned for his dynamic stage presence, followed by ObiSun, whose eclectic style and infectious beats are guaranteed to ignite the dancefloor. Headlining the night is the spirited trio 19 Twenty, whose explosive performance perfectly captures the essence of live music.
Artists from nine regions across Australia have fiercely battled for their chance to compete in the Passport to Airlie Finals and the showcase launches the main event program under the big top on Friday 8th November.  This event is perfect for adventurous souls eager to unearth the next rising star in the music scene and if you arrive early, you could win big!  
Enter through the big top main gate before 4pm on Friday and you’ll be in the draw for one of two coveted VIP ticket upgrades for that night.  Imagine enjoying the festival from an exclusive viewing area, with all the perks that come with a VIP experience!
The standout finalists include Tom Neilson from Sunshine Coast, Phoebe Over from Newcastle, Space&Ages from Gold Coast, Thirst Trap from Byron Bay, ANA from Melbourne, Noah Davis from Mackay, HILZ from Brisbane, Slippery Gypsy from Cairns and The Corbs from Darwin.  
It’s the perfect way to start the main event - fresh new acts, followed by the 2023 winners Avalanche, seasoned headliners Thirsty Merc and alternative rock icons Jebediah.
Over 30 more acts are set to serenade across the rest of the event program and from the first strum to the final encore, the Airlie Beach Festival of Music is guaranteed to be five days of music-filled magic!  
Whether you’re rocking out at the main stage or kicking back to laid-back acoustic sets, this festival will leave you needing a date with your couch and a recovery session for your feet on your return home from paradise!
For the full five-day Airlie Beach Festival of Music program, visit www.airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au

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Mark your calendars for Friday 12th November, as Tom Harrington takes the stage at Sorrento at 12pm for an unmissable performance with free entry!  After clinching victory in the prestigious ‘Battle of the Buskers’ at the renowned ‘Buskers by the Lake’ festival, Tom has secured his place in the Airlie Beach Festival of Music line-up - an honour that reflects his exceptional talent and promise as a rising star in the Australian music scene. 
 
Originally hailing from rural Victoria and now calling the Sunshine Coast home, Tom is quickly carving out a niche for himself with his innovative vocal looping performance, setting him apart from conventional indie-folk artists. With Airlie Beach being the third stop on his Australian tour, "When Time Is On Our Side," Tom’s packing up his bus and hitting the road, ready to share his unique sound and heartfelt storytelling.
 
“I can't wait to hit the stage in Airlie Beach - the combination of performing and escaping in paradise is the perfect recipe for inspiration,” said Tom.
 
“I genuinely appreciate the opportunity that’s come from my competition win - it’s fantastic to see emerging artists like myself getting the chance to shine on such a prominent platform.”
 
Joining Tom in the three day lineup at Sorrento is Dan Hannaford, whose dynamic blend of country and rock influences is sure to captivate.  Also featured are Innocent Eve, Jackson Dunn and Andrew Cousins, all of whom have graced the stage at ‘Buskers by the Lake’ festival in previous years. This strong connection between both festivals reflects a shared commitment to supporting emerging talent and creating extraordinary opportunities.
 
Let’s roll out the welcome mat and show these visiting artists what true Airlie Beach hospitality looks like as they bring their magic to the stage at Sorrento!
 

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Every year, Airlie Beach Festival of Music thrives thanks to a dedicated team of nearly one hundred volunteers who work tirelessly to help bring the festival to life.  From setting up inventory, to manning the pop-up office, managing ticket and merchandise sales and critical bump-in and bump out tasks, these passionate volunteers handle it all.  Among them is a special group known as “ambassadors,” easily spotted in their blue-striped shirts, stationed throughout the festival - they're the go-to crew to give directions, answer questions and even offer a hug when needed.
A key figure behind the scenes is Margie Murphy, owner of Airlie Events, who works all year long to help turn the vision into reality.
“I love working with a passionate team of volunteers, who come together to make something amazing,” said Margie, who’s working around the clock as opening day approaches.
“Without the dedication of our incredible volunteers, this festival would remain just a dream, and our community would miss out on the tremendous economic and social benefits it brings.”
The sense of community extends to local schools as well, with Cannonvale State School and PCYC Whitsundays both raising vital funds through food stalls at the festival, adding even more heart to the event.
To further extend the community give-back, the festival rallies around a fundraising charity and for the past ten years well over $50,000 has been donated to the National Breast Cancer Foundation through Pink Ribbon activations.  After a decade of unwavering support for the Foundation, the festival is excited to announce a new chapter in its’ community give-back initiatives by sharing the love and partnering with BMA CQ Rescue.  This shift reflects the festival's commitment to diversifying its’ impact and supporting a broader range of causes that resonate with the community.  
BMA CQ Rescue Helicopter is a vital aeromedical and search-and-rescue service operating in Central Queensland, covering an extensive area from Townsville to St Lawrence.  Established in 1996, this community-driven organisation provides emergency helicopter services to residents, workers and visitors, ensuring help is available 24/7, 365 days a year.​
Funds for the Organisation will be generated via a raffle and live auction, with two artist-signed guitars up for grabs.  Don’t miss your chance to snag one of these priceless treasures while championing a cause that matters!  Tickets will be available at the festival main tent and from the enthusiastic BMA CQ Rescue team throughout the duration of the festival and the grand auction and prize draw will take place on the main stage on the night of Sunday, November 10.

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Looking for a refreshing drink to beat the heat in the Whitsundays?
Mika has selected their top cocktail of the week: the irresistible frozen Piña Colada! This delightful treat will transport you straight to the tropics—perfect for those warm, sunny days.
Mika customers have been raving about this popular cocktail, enjoying its refreshing vibes on hot summer afternoons. Made with real coconut powder and blended into a smooth, icy beverage, it's the ultimate way to cool down.
According to the restaurant, the cocktail's appeal lies in its smoothie-like drinkability. You can savour the delicious cocktail as a single serving, or if you're in the mood for sharing with friends—or treating yourself—you can opt for a jug.
The Pina Colada is best paired with Mika’s delicious tacos, and compliment any of the flavours exceptionally.
Pina Coladas taste better between 4-5pm, head down to Mika between these times to find out why..
Cheers to a taste of paradise!

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Mika’s Pina Colada

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As summer approaches, we can expect warm weather, humidity, and plenty of time by the pool. To make the most of these sunny days, nothing beats a refreshing cocktail to cool you down and elevate your spirits.
This Malibu Bay Breeze recipe is a delicious tropical cocktail that pairs coconut rum, cranberry and pineapple, making sure to give you all the Whitsunday sultry summer holiday feels.
Let’s start with some ingredients...
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Ingredients
2 ounces 100% pineapple juice
1 ½ ounces coconut rum
2 ounces 100% unsweetened cranberry juice*
1 lime wedge

Now for the fun part, time to start shaking!

Instructions
   1. To start, combine the pineapple juice and coconut rum in a glass and give it a stir. Then, fill the glass with ice.
   2. In a shot glass or small pitcher, measure out the unsweetened cranberry juice. Carefully pour the cranberry juice over the ice so it floats on top.
   3. Finish by garnishing with a lime wedge and enjoy your refreshing Whitsundays cocktail!

Top Tips:
   • Use unsweetened cranberry juice – the sugar can affect the density and the order you float the liquid matters.
   • Stir the pineapple and coconut rum in a glass to start. These will stay on the bottom.
   • Finish with the unsweetened cranberry juice, which will float on top (provided you get unsweetened) and stir gently for a swirl effect.

Credit with thanks to: A Couple Cooks Blog: https://www.acouplecooks.com/
Malibu Bay Breeze photo credit: A Couple Cooks Blog: https://www.acouplecooks.com/

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Tucked away in the stunning Port of Airlie, Zorro’s Café & Bar is a family run business with beautiful ocean views, and it is open seven days a week from 7am – 2pm.

Well-equipped for the hospitality industry, Zorro’s Café & Bar owners Terry and Perri Clarke worked in tourism for many years before switching focus to create a vibrant café culture at the bustling marina precinct instead.

Zorro’s Café & Bar named after the official meet & greet dog Zorro, has been open since December 2023, and the stunning setting makes it a beautiful place to eat.

The café overlooking the marina, captures lovely summer breezes off the water making it the perfect venue to unwind, relax and enjoy with friends.

Zorro’s Café & Bar is open for Breakfast and Lunch and what sets them apart is their selection of fresh salads and extensive tapas menu.

“Perri is keen to introduce a range of fresh salads,” said Terry.

“We do summer salads using fresh seasonal produce – come and try our avocado and mango salad, the pear and walnut salad or the roast pumpkin salad – they are all delicious.

The Tapas menu at Zorro’s is a great addition to the menu with shared platter plates combined with the growing Cocktail list and daily specials proving to be popular.

The breakfast menu has a few highlights including ‘The Stack’ which includes four hashbrowns stacked up high with bacon, avocado and salmon. Chili scrambled eggs and Perri’s favourite her savoury mince.

Terry recalls that the pintxos bars of San Sebastian are the basis for what he and Perri wanted to create at Zorro’s. A friendly gathering place for friends to meet, relax and enjoy each other’s company.

Zorro’s has an expansive outdoor setting on vibrant marina frontage, but their big indoor air-conditioned seating area is bright, open and welcoming to all - it is a perfect escape from the heat and it’s premises is also available for evening functions.

The team at Zorro’s Café & Bar look forward to welcoming you to our Alfresco dining venue overlooking the beautiful marina at Port of Airlie.

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Co-Owner of Zorro’s Café & Bar Terry Clarke, Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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