The community are invited to participate in a free and engaging memoir writing workshop which is due to be held at the Proserpine Library next month.

Hosted by inspiring local publishers, Julia and Richard Evans, the exciting two-hour session promises to motivate and educate aspiring authors.

Discover the fundamentals of memoir writing, how to navigate memory gaps, combat ethical conflicts and develop a proficient memoir project.

Enjoy interactive exercises, prompts to spark your creativity, and learn how to generate seamless, compelling narrative.

“Join us on the path to preserving your legacy through the art of memoir writing,” said Julia.

“Your story deserves to be heard, and this workshop is your first step towards ensuring your voice resonates through the ages.”

WHAT: Free Memoir Writing Workshop

WHEN: Friday, October 6 – 9.30am – 11.30am

WHERE: Proserpine Library

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Get ready for the best day of the year, with Zonta hosting their annual Derby Day in November.

Held in line with the Melbourne Cup Race Week, the Zonta Derby Day boasts fantastic food, great company, and non-stop laughs.

For the fourth iteration of the Derby Day, the event will be hosted at La Tabella Restaurant in Airlie Beach, with a fantastic lunch menu, prizes, live stream of the official race, and a fashion parade by local clothing and lifestyle boutique Airllywood.

With a strict dress code of Black and White, all attendees should start looking through their wardrobes for their best outfits.

Zonta Club of the Whitsundays have been assisting the community for years, working with the wider Zonta organisation to promote the status of women and girls both locally and worldwide, via health, advocacy, and education.  

So why not join in the fun with this fantastic event?

WHAT: Zonta Derby Day

WHERE: La Tabella Restaurant, Airlie Beach

WHEN: Saturday November 4, from 11.30am

TICKETS: whitsundaytickets.com.au

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If I’m not around on Monday, something has gone terribly wrong.

This Sunday I’m running another marathon and I’m asking you to keep me in your thoughts because I’ll need every good piece of vibe I can tell you, as I try and weave my way around Sydney for 42.195km’s.

This will be marathon run number six for me and I’ll tell you, I’m a little nervous as I’ve done very little training. Some people have told me I’m mad for doing it, but hey, let’s just see how it goes in 48 hours.

One of the reasons I’ve hardly done any training, is that it worked for me last year, so why change things up? The other marathons I’ve done like Gold Coast and Melbourne, I did heaps of running and extra stuff and after I ran the distance, I felt horrible. So last year I scaled it back and just did what I normally train for during the hockey season, and I ended up running five hours, so for me that’s great.

I’m starting the run at the base of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, running over it (yes, they’ve closed the whole thing to traffic – how cool) and then I’ll be shuffling my way around the old town and then finishing up at the Sydney Opera House before lunchtime hopefully!

I’m thinking of wearing the pink tutu on the day as well. It’ll be the same one that we all ran in for breast cancer with Mum all those years ago for the Mother’s Day Run and City to Surf. That way Mum will be with me along the way.

Anyway, think about me come 7am Sunday as I go my hardest and come home in a blaze of glory. Hopefully

You know what, straight after this I’ll be doing something very special with a bicycle and some electric cables. Have you ever seen Spicks and Specks years ago when they used to do the exercise bike music challenge? The speed of their pedalling was the speed of the music being played. I reckon I could give it a go to get the word out for the River to Reef bike ride in a few weeks. It should make for some entertaining tunes on 4MK!

Before I go, huge thanks to everyone at the Mackay Hospital Foundation for allowing myself and Johnny to be your MC’s this year at the Dinner on the Runway. I was blessed to be a part of your big night and helping to raise heaps of cash for this wonderful organisation. I am lucky to be able to do what I do each day.

You can join Rob Kidd from 5am weekday mornings on 4MK 1026 AM in Mackay and Proserpine, 91.5FM in Airlie Beach or just ask your smart speaker to play 4MK on iHeartRadio!

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Friday 15 September

Lagoons Gallery Exhibition – Sticks & Stones and Other Inspirations by Linda Danvers

Wednesday – Friday 9am-2pm | Weekends 8am-3pm

'Most people walk through the Gardens looking up at the trees, birds, sky…Botanic Gardens I, II and III are inspired by the beauty I have found looking down'. - Linda Danvers

This exhibition is on display within the Botanic Gardens Café. | Free entry.

Botanic Gardens, 9 Lagoon Street, Mackay

SUGARCITY Powerfest

Friday - Sunday, Gates open Friday 10am

Huge motorsport weekend at Palmyra Dragway with over $26,000 in prize money up for grabs. A weekend full of burnouts, drag racing, roll racing, show-and-shine, power skids and more. Ticketed event | Available at localtix.com.au

Palmyra Drag Racing Club - Bells Road, Mackay

Gentle Chair Yoga & Mindfulness

Discover the benefits of seated Yoga combined with mindful breathing and meditation practice. Chair Yoga can improve coordination, flexibility & concentration while delivering an overall sense of peace & wellbeing to the participant. This event is FREE to attend, however a current Library membership must be held. Max. 8 spaces, so bookings are essential. Contact Sarina Library on 4961 9387.

Sarina Library / Youth Centre

Mushroom Valley Festival

Friday 15 - Sunday 17 September

Mushroom Valley Festival is an amazing psychedelic wonderland.

Festival goers can expect to see a variety of music genres, a vast range of creative activities, dance, theatre discussion, conscious sound healing and an amazing healing space to provide a place for growth and personal wellbeing. Visit www.mushroomvalley.com.au for tickets and further information.

Mushroom Valley Eco Camp, Yalbaroo

Saturday 16 September

VaMa (Live)

Saturday 6pm – 10pm

Experience the dynamic live performance by VaMa at the Garden Bar, join us for an unforgettable night of music and entertainment! Free entry.

Harrup Park, Mackay

Sugardrop Festival 2023

Saturday 5:30pm – 9:30pm

Lovely Records presents Sugardrop 2023, back for its second year!

Acts including Tia Gostelow, Peach Fur, Jem Cassar-Daley, Mt Nadir, Inside Lane and DJ sets Clovr and Pacey.

More info and tickets available at sugardropfestival.com

The Metropolitan Hotel – 17 Gordon Street, Mackay

Sunday 17 September

Sunday Live Music

Sunday, 2:00pm to 5:00pm

Music every Sunday from 2pm - 5pm. Head down to the Seabreeze Hotel this Sunday for some fresh tunes, delicious food, and ice-cold brews.

Seabreeze Hotel

Monday 18 September

Creatures of the Garden

Begins Monday

'Creatures of the Gardens' self-guided fun facts trail.

Discover some of the creatures that make their home in the Botanic Gardens and surrounding areas along our fun facts trail.

Family friendly activity, available weekdays during the school holidays. Free entry.

Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens - 9 Lagoon Street, Mackay

Tuesday 19 September

Reef Guardians: Virtual Exploration and Craft

Tuesday 10:00am - 11:00am

For ages 5-12. Explore the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef and investigate how a hands-on, community-based approach can make a real difference to the health and resilience of the Reef. Virtual sessions, including Reef inspired hands-on craft activity.

Free ticketed event for library card holders, grab yours at eventbrite.com.au

Dudley Denny City Library, 134 Victoria Street, Mackay

BMD Rumble Championships 2023

Tuesday 9am – Saturday 10am

FMS Group presents ‘Rumble on the Reef’ - Get ready to watch the best skateboarders from the season battle it out during championship week. The biggest skateboarding event of the year. Watch the best skateboarders from Australia, New Zealand, Fiji live and free in Mackay. More information found here: https://www.therumble.com.au/events/Fmsrumbleonthereef

Sugar Bowl Skatepark, Scriha Street, North Mackay

Wednesday 20 September

Teen Shed Mackay Teen Circle

Every Wednesday, 4:00pm to 5:30pm

Teen Circle is a place for all teens in the community to come together. It's a safe space for them to connect, heal & learn from each other. They can be seen, heard & understood with no judgement. This gathering will be held every Wednesday, all teenagers are welcome to attend. It is a free event, but attendees are asked to register for numbers.

Kutta Mulla Gorinna Special Assistance School

Mackay Farmers’ Market

Every Wednesday, 6:30am to 10:30am

The market is a showcase of our region’s amazing produce direct from the farmer.

Bluewater Quay

National Boys Choir of Australia

Wednesday, 6:00pm

The National Boys Choir of Australia is delighted to perform in St Paul’s Church in Mackay for its 2023 North Queensland Tour. The NBCA is delighted to be joined in this concert by the Mackay Choral Society, directed by Nicole Thomson.

St Paul’s Uniting Church, 21 MacAlister Street, Mackay

Sugar City Rock and Roll Mackay Club Wednesday Night Lessons

Every Wednesday, 7:00pm

Why not come along and learn to rock ‘n’ roll in a friendly and fun atmosphere with the Sugar City Rock ‘n’ Rollers Mackay Club? Previous experience is not required.For further enquiries call 0408 983 911.

58 Macalister St, Mackay

Juniors Oztag Tryouts

Starts Wednesday at 4pm

Bring the kids down and try out oztag at Souths Junior Rugby League Grounds.

Under 3 – 10 plays from 4:00pm to 4:30pm & Under 11 – 15 plays from 4:30pm to 5:00pm. Registration information will also be available on the day. Free event.

Casey Avenue & Bridge Road, Mackay

Thursday 21 September

Mackay Family Carnival

Thursday - Sunday, 5:30pm – 9pm daily

Mackay Family Carnival is back for the September School Holidays - A family friendly carnival with plenty of rides, food, Side Show Alley games & show bags for ALL ages.

️Free entry into event, ride tickets & armbands available on the night purchased from ticket box. More info: https://www.facebook.com/billsamuesments/

Mackay Showgrounds

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Foodspace Cafe will be opening for two weekends over the school holidays (September 16 and 17, 23 and 24) to complement two special Artspace Mackay programs.

As well as its normal menu, the cafe will also be offering a special Foodspace Charcuterie Board with eight antipasto toppings, plus dips and grilled sourdough.

The special cafe openings coincide with Artspace Mackay’s free, drop-in school holiday art activities (on offer all through school holidays during gallery opening hours).

The drop-in activities are for all ages and abilities.

Families are invited to use the many colourful crepe-paper streamers and instructions provided to make a variety of beautiful garlands to adorn a mandap (a four-post structure traditionally used in India for special ceremonies).

There will also be assorted lawn games like Giant Jenga, Connect 4 and Noughts and Crosses that families can play on the grassed area near Foodspace.

Additionally, Artspace Mackay is hosting the next scheduled viewing of their artist’s book of the month on Saturday, September 16 from 10.30am to 11.30am.

For more info, follow Foodspace Café on Facebook or head to artspacemackay.com.au.

Weekend Special: Foodspace Charcuterie Board

$30 for a shared platter or $20 for a single serve.  

Special includes: sliced prosciutto, pastrami, salami, shaved double smoked ham, crispy chorizo sausage, cheeses, pickled vegetables, mixed marinated olives, house dips and toasted char-grilled sourdough.

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I have been to the Wintermoon Festival a few times and one of the features of that outstanding event is that you need to get there a day or two early to set up your tent and campsite.

We always camped with friends and part of the deal is that you all get in together and help set everyone up. The setting up part involves all the blokes rolling up their sleeves and working together to get the job done.

It requires co-operation, co-ordination and teamwork and involves all sorts of equipment like tent pegs, ropes and hammers.

And there is an expectation that, because you are a bloke, you have a pretty good idea of what you are doing.

I wasn’t sure about (a) how long it would take for me to be found out and (b) how public my humiliation would be … but the answers were (a) a couple of minutes and (b) very.

Riley, the then-teenaged son of my friends Mel and Bryan, noticed my incompetence early as I struggled with some previously obscure piece of camping equipment while setting up a tent.

Rather than keeping his observation to himself, Riley brought it to everyone’s attention with the loud exclamation: “Hey, check out outdoor Dave! How you going with that mate?”

It gave everyone a chance for a big laugh and I know they enjoyed it because it created continuing laughter over the weekend. The best part for everyone, apart from the fact I had been exposed by a mere child, was that I could now be referred to as “Outdoor Dave”.

Whenever a piece of equipment required attention or something needed fixing you would hear the call, “get Outdoor Dave on to it”. Absolutely hilarious. Every. Single. Time.

It is no coincidence that my career choice of real estate does not require me to be useful in the traditional male sense.

There are plenty of blokes, and no-doubt women, in real estate who can build and fix and do all sorts of useful things but, thank God, it’s not a prerequisite.

Most people have done something prior to going into real estate and there are people from all walks of life.

Bringing some sort of life skill is important but real estate soon establishes what is vital if you want to be successful: great communication skills, the power of insight into fellow humans, authenticity, integrity, resilience, a strong work ethic and the ability to juggle multiple issues or problems at one time, among other things … oh, and not making up stupid names about people who can’t fix things.

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Over 200 people enjoyed a colourful community event on Saturday when Whitsunday Counselling and Support held their annual Colour Run to coincide with Queensland Child Protection Week.

With educational stalls hosted by knowledgeable individuals, attendees could engage with headspace, PCYC and other community groups.

They could also enjoy a range of free activities including exercise and breathing classes with EvoPrime, free face painting thanks to ARS Whitsunday, a free sausage sizzle with Whitsunday Foodservice and free live entertainment thanks to Paddy Shenanigans.

“It was a really good day, everyone seemed to enjoy it and everything was free!” said Niamh Mulvihill, Whitsunday Counselling Intensive Family Support Case Manager.

“We printed off key messages from Child Protection Week and put them on the stalls and on the back of the raffle tickets.”

This year’s focus was ‘Child Protection is everybody’s business’ and key messages included sayings such as ‘caring for children and keeping them safe is a shared responsibility’.

The main event colour run was also a huge success, with children running around a temporary race circuit while volunteers threw plumes of colourful powder in the air.

Many white shirts were smattered with the bio-degradable powder which was conveniently easy to wash-off.

Covered in multiple colours from head to toe, children laughed in delight and ran around with many parents happy to get messy as well.

Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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Whitsunday Christian College is excited to unveil their 2023 musical, showcasing a host of talented students who will soon be on centre stage.

Taking on the exciting screenplay, The Wizard of Oz, over 70 students ranging from Years 3 to 12 have signed on for the project, rehearsing and perfecting their performance for over nine months now.

Jade Shepherd-Smith is Dorothy and is excited to share her newfound skill and love of singing.

“I haven’t really sung on stage before, but I said I’d give it my best shot,” Jade explained.

Acting was something she’s always wished to explore, and with singing now in her repertoire, she is a force to be reckoned with.

Jade got the performing bug two years ago, when she performed in the school’s production, Seussical Jr.

In the previous show, Jade only had one line and this year she is excited to take on a lead character.

She is joined by Shannon Matthews, who plays Scarecrow, who is more than eager to showcase his skills and confidence on stage.

Having a main role in the previous musical, he is excited to perfect his own craft.

“This musical is very different from the last one,” he said.

“This time we have to learn our lines at home, so that rehearsals are mainly just acting with each other on stage.”

Lachlan Riley is a newcomer to musicals, but he has five characters to his name, and is excited to be a part of the performance.

“I only asked for a small role with a few lines, but I was asked to take on other characters, so now I’ve got five!” he explained.

Lachlan plays Guard, Crow, Tree, Poppy, and Monkey, meaning he is on stage for almost the entire performance.

“I want to be an actor, so this is great practice,” Lachlan said.

On the other hand, Evie McLoughlin wants to be a dancer and her roles of Tornado, Ozian, and Poppy are perfect.

“I like my characters because I get to move around a lot,” she said.

“It’s fun, because I do dance outside of school, and being in the Tornado, I move around and I’m not staying still.”

Pollyanna Bartlett is the Junior School Captain, and being Ozian and Poppy has encouraged her confidence and public speaking.

“The show has helped me, because I was a little shy sometimes, but now I’m very energetic and excited on the stage,” Pollyanna explained.

With over 70 students from both Junior and Senior Schools involved in the cast and backstage, the musical is a big production.

“It’s different, because you can’t always be with your friends, and you get to interact with a bunch of different students from different year levels,” Shannon explained.

Lenny Pennell is the Musical Director and school’s Arts Coordinator and is excited for the student’s hard work to be showcased to the wider community.

“It’s a classic story, with a lot of familiar songs, but with a modern twist to it.

“The production showcases all the creativity and talents of our school, and the joy the students feel when on stage, is great!” she explained.

Tickets are selling fast for this exciting production, with two show times available over two days. The College is excited to welcome Proserpine Nursing Home to enjoy a trip down memory lane as they reminisce of this classic and enjoy the first matinee performance.

WHAT: Whitsunday Christian College: Wizard of Oz Musical

WHERE: Whitsunday Christian College Auditorium

WHEN: Friday October 6 and Saturday October 7

TICKETS: www.trybooking.com/CJZAF

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The Everly Brothers And Buddy Holly Are Coming To Airlie Beach

Classic 50s and 60s rock and roll is making its way to Airlie Beach Hotel this September, with the enigmatic Everly Brothers and Buddy Holly Tribute Show.

Bringing effervescent rock and roll charm, the show will not miss the top tunes and hit tracks.

Legendary rockers and all-time stars are Rick Gauci and Steven Burns, the two iconic men behind the show.

‘It’s so easy to fall in love’ with these tunes, and the sheer appeal and stage presence of Rick and Steven, who have been perfecting their craft and their art, ensuring ‘Words of love’ will flow over us this September.

Being dedicated, life-long fans of the Everly Brothers and Buddy Holly, Rick and Steven have been lovingly recreating these iconic classics, a ‘Brand New Heartache’ for us to love and enjoy, not missing a beat with the charm and charisma.

Sometimes ‘I wonder if I care as much’, because these two shows will be powerful, full of charm and electric sounds.  

‘All I have to do is dream’ about this music, and the Airlie Beach Hotel is looking after us.

But don’t worry, because Steven and Rick are also bringing the entire rock and roll discography with them, including the likes of Elvis and an extensive lineup of classic 50s and 60s rockers, sure to round out the afternoon with fantastic energy.

Full of nostalgia, fun and, ‘Maybe Baby’ charm, the Everly Brothers and Buddy Holly presence will take Airlie Beach back to the past.

Take this journey with us and celebrate the good ol’ times, with this iconic show.

With a performance synonymous with a good time, excitement, and fun, so now ‘Listen to me’, this is not a show to miss!

WHAT: The Everly Brothers and Buddy Holly Tribute Show

WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel

WHEN: Saturday September 23 and Sunday September 24, 2pm to 5.30pm

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Steven Burns and Rick Gauci are invigorating the classic 50s and 60s rock and roll music scene

Perfecting their craft for years, Steven and Rick are ready to make Airlie Beach rock

Cruisy rock and roll for Airlie Beach Hotel this September

Authentic and honest, Everly Brothers and Buddy Holly tribute

Get prepared for a show not to miss! Photos supplied

Welcomes 1180 Players To Field

The Paul Bowman Challenge Carnival is back for 2023, with more than 5000 people expected to stream into the region over the weekend.

With over 80 teams from across Queensland participating in the two-day Under 9 Rugby League Competition, Proserpine will be a hive of energy and excitement.

Proserpine has two Braham teams competing, each with 15 boys and girls per team.

Proserpine Whitsunday Junior Rugby League President Justin Follett said, “The aim of the weekend is to see more than a thousand children compete for their club, display good sportsmanship, and enjoy themselves.”

“It’s going to be a great weekend showcasing rugby league in our region, so come out to the Proserpine footy grounds and support your local team playing the greatest game of all.”

WHAT: Paul Bowman Challenge Carnival Rugby League

WHERE: Proserpine Junior Rugby League Fields

WHEN: Saturday September 16 and Sunday September 17, 2023

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Thousands of spectators and competitors will stream into Proserpine for the Paul Bowman Rugby League Challenge this weekend. Photo supplied

The much beloved Larrikin Puppets are coming to the region, sure to make these school holidays a hit for children.

Showcasing the fantastic puppets getting up to mischief, these shows are not to be missed.

And followed by an engaging and entertaining Puppetry workshop, everyone will be amused with these rowdy characters.

Friday September 22 at the Bowen QLD Country Women’s Association Hall, at 10am.

Monday September 25, at the Collinsville Community Centre, from 10am.

Tuesday September 26, at Cannonvale Library, from 10am.

Wednesday September 27, at Proserpine library, from 10am.

These completely free shows are open for all community children, with bookings essential.

Contact each library to reserve a spot.

Bowen Library – 4761 3670

Collinsville Library – 4785 5366

Cannonvale Library – 4846 9400

Proserpine Library – 4945 0275

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The countdown is on for the next Tiny Homes Fundraiser and organisers are inviting the whole community to Get Lei’d at a lively Hawaiian beach party at Cape Gloucester Resort next month.

Guests will receive a cocktail and lei on arrival before a night of entertainment unfolds.

From exciting crab races to charity auctions and delicious Hawaiian cuisine, the tropical vibes will be in the air and with talented musicians, GFORCE and ViVa Acoustic playing, the dancefloor is guaranteed to be pumping.

Fancy dress is encouraged so don your most flamboyant Hawaiian shirts and grass skirts for your chance to win Best Dressed.

On the night, there will be bus transfers from Airlie Beach, Cannonvale, and Proserpine to Cape Gloucester and back home at the end of the evening.

Camping is also available.

All proceeds go towards the construction of four tiny homes in Proserpine for homeless women over the age of 55.

Get your tickets now, and guarantee a fantastic beach party, perfect for a spring night!

WHAT: Get Lei’d Hawaiian Beach Party

WHERE: Cape Gloucester Resort

WHEN: Saturday October 7, 5pm to 10pm

TICKETS: $100 per person through https://bit.ly/Lei-d_BeachParty

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Love was in the air and the congregation were all wearing white on Sunday afternoon when Jill and Phil held a surprise wedding ceremony on the last day of the White on Whitehaven three-day event.

The silica sands were their aisle, and the soothing sounds of the waves were the wedding day music as local celebrant, Annie Lloyd-Lewis invited everyone to share in the love story which was broadcast by loudspeaker across the beach.

Guests and strangers flocked from near and far to witness the special moment and Jill said the whole day was “just magic!”

The couple, who are both in their 60’s, met online on the ‘Silver Singles’ dating app 18 months ago and Jill described their first date at a local café as a surreal moment where they “talked for hours”.

Having both been previously married, Phil divorced for over a decade and Jill a widower, the couple were elated to find love again.

Breaking tradition, Jill proposed to Phil and he immediately agreed, but secretly planned an intimate proposal of his own a few months later.

The couple wanted to have a small, intimate wedding and when they booked tickets to return to White on Whitehaven for the second year running, they decided to make it their wedding day.

With 10 invited guests and over 100 strangers present on the day, Jill and Phil surprised everyone with their wedding plans and, as the crowd gathered, each person was quick to celebrate the special occasion.

Annie Lloyd-Lewis officiated the ceremony, which was heartfelt, humorous and emotional, tears dusting the edges of many eyes.

And after the romantic kiss and declaration of ‘husband and wife’, the couple both stripped down to their swimmers and ran hand-in-hand into the sea.

A perfect Whitehaven Beach Wedding.

Photo credit: Rachael Smith and Bronte Hodge

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Friday 8 September

Central Queensland Blokart Cape Hillsborough Regatta

Friday to Sunday

Watch blokarts gracefully sail down the beach at great speed at Cape Hillsborough for this popular regatta. This is the 15th time this annual event has been held and has become the second-largest blokarting competition in Australia. Free to watch, a sausage sizzle and drinks will be for sale on the beach.

Cape Hillsborough Beach

Wintermoon Springfest

Friday to Sunday

Rejoice in the joy of Spring with music, dance, yoga, meditation, camping , family time and workshops at the stunning Cameron’s Pocket.

Cameron’s Pocket

Friday Jazz @ The Con

Friday, 6:00pm

CQCM Music Staff present Friday Jazz @ the Con featuring Dr David Reaston (guitar), Dr Peter McKenzie (saxophone), Jason Smyth-Tomkins (drums). The September concert will feature vocalist, CQU alumni and staff member, Hayley Kennedy.

Central Queensland Conservatorium Of Music

Saturday 9 September

Mackay Livin’ The Dream Expo

Saturday and Sunday

Living' The Dream Expo brings you everything you ever dreamt of owning. Your dream caravan/campervan, car, boat, bike, 4WD, ATV, trailer. Your dream spa, pool, shed. Even your dream BBQ and outdoor furniture.

Mackay Showgrounds

Meet the Artist – Linda Danvers

Saturday, 9:00am to 10:30am

Grab a cuppa and meet Linda Danvers, artist behind the latest exhibition 'Sticks & Stones and Other Inspirations' displayed in the Lagoons Gallery within the Botanic Gardens Cafe.

Linda will explain the unique way in which she created the different artworks displayed and the inspirations behind them. All artworks are for sale, all sale enquiries to be directed to the artist.

Botanic Gardens Café

Gospel Garden Party

Saturday, 2:00pm

This spring celebration promises to be a wonderful celebration of classic Gospel and Gardening glory. The members of the Mackay Anglican Community have been growing plants from their own gardens as a special project to be on display and for sale at the

event. With completely free entry, there will be an afternoon tea available. Attendees can rest and revive in the glory of our North Queensland Spring, while listening to a variety of classic Gospel entertainment from a variety of local performers from Children to Golden oldies who know those tunes so well. Some pure and simple Gospel tunes from Solo performers, duos and trios. All are invited to join. Giant checkers will be on the lawn, and blessings are available in the church. For more information, please contact either Kristi at

admin@mackayanglicans.org.au or Niki at nikipower21@gmail.com or 0411732304.

The gardens to the side of Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Gordon Street, Mackay

ACO Collective | Ecstatic Dances

Saturday, 7:30pm

ACO Collective combines Australia’s most talented emerging string players with the professional musicians of the Australian Chamber Orchestra to create a high energy string orchestra.

MECC

Sunday 10 September

Australia A vs New Zealand A

Sunday, 9:30am to 5:00pm

Cricket Australia has selected the Great Barrier Reef Arena to host an exciting cricket series between Australia A and New Zealand A men's teams, finishing with a thrilling One Day game on Sunday, with free entry.

Great Barrier Reef Arena

Jazz in the Park

Sunday, 2:00pm to 5:00pm

Staff and students from the Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music Bachelor of Music course present Jazz in the Park. This event will feature a special guest, renowned vocalist Hayley Kennedy. Relax in the beautiful surrounds of Queens Park and listen to some of Mackay’s finest up-and-coming musicians studying at the Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music. Free event. Bring a picnic. BYO chairs.

Queens Park

Sunday Live Music – The Feels

Sunday, 2:00pm to 5:00pm

Music every Sunday from 2pm - 5pm. Head down to the Seabreeze Hotel this Sunday for some fresh tunes, delicious food, and ice-cold brews.

Seabreeze Hotel

2023 Aus Poetry Slam Central Queensland Heat

Sunday, 5:00pm to 7:30pm

Think what you've got what it takes to become Australia's next Poetry Slam champion? All you need is an original poem and two minutes on the mic. Two poets chosen by the audience will go on to the Queensland state finals with the chance for a shot at the nationals. Both performers and spectators need a ticket, so grab yours today! Presented by Queensland Poetry Festival.

The Metropolitan Hotel Mackay

Light up the Lake

Sunday, 6:00pm to 8:00pm

Every year MAD Cow Coffee, Hope & Healing ‘Light up the Lake’ with lanterns to remember those we have lost to suicide in our community, show our support to those who’s stories continue and honour the survivors. Lanterns are free to anyone attending and are decorated on the night or collected prior and decorated privately with family or friends as a tribute to a loved one. Special guest appearances and live music by Hannah Roberts Music and the Lake cafe will be open. This FREE MAD Cow Coffee, Hope and Healing community event is proudly sponsored by Wake House Australia, Get It Done Training and Hannah Roberts Music.

Wake House Australia

Tuesday 12 September

BMA Kidspace

Tuesday, 10:00am

BMA Kidspace, Artspace Mackay’s free and ever popular toddler’s program, gives children under five a chance to explore and have fun with art in a climate of cooperative learning. The program includes free artist-run craft activities in two sessions, Session 1: Anytime from 10 to 11:30am; Session 2: Anytime from 12:15 to 2pm with live musical entertainment 11:30am to 12:15pm. Bring your children along for a fun day of art-making, singing and dancing.

Artspace Mackay

Wednesday 13 September

Teen Shed Mackay Teen Circle

Every Wednesday, 4:00pm to 5:30pm

Teen Circle is a place for all teens in the community to come together. It's a safe space for them to connect, heal & learn from each other. They can be seen, heard & understood with no judgement. It's a space to honour the uniqueness of each individual, everyone is equal. They will be able to speak from their hearts about things that trouble, annoy, frustrate them. This gathering will be held every Wednesday, all teenagers are welcome to attend. It is a free event, but attendees are asked to register for numbers.

Kutta Mulla Gorinna Special Assistance School

Mackay Farmers’ Market

Every Wednesday, 6:30am to 10:30am

The market is a showcase of our region’s amazing produce direct from the farmer.

Bluewater Quay

Sugar City Rock and Roll Mackay Club Wednesday Night Lessons

Every Wednesday, 7:00pm

Why not come along and learn to rock ‘n’ roll in a friendly and fun atmosphere with the Sugar City Rock ‘n’ Rollers Mackay Club? Previous experience is not required. Everyone learns at their own pace and, even better, the first lesson is free on your way to learning the four step style of rock ‘n’ roll. $5 for members and $8 for non-members after that. The club caters for social activities for club members with regular dances with live bands in attendance and away trips. For further enquiries call 0408 983 911.

58 Macalister St, Mackay

Thursday 14 September

Mackay Riverside Market

Every Thursday, 3:00pm to 7:00pm

Come and meet your local growers, bakers and makers, chill on the lawn listening to some beautiful tunes and grab some delicious dinner and desert.

Bluewater Quay

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One of the changes I’ve noticed in the way of the world is the growing trend for people to see things as either black or white, people as either good or bad. There’s no acceptance or awareness of nuance … you’re either “with us or agin’ us”.

It’s becoming a world without grey areas and some of the big issues of our time highlight what I mean.

Take climate change. If you do not totally embrace Australia’s net zero philosophy and agree 100 per cent with the government’s approach irrespective of any economic and social damage it may cause then you are a “climate change denier”.

You might support reducing emissions but believe energy security and affordability is a vital component of the transition. You might argue that we need to maintain the reliability of our network until renewables can effectively do the job … but that makes you a climate change denier because you are not with the program 100 per cent of the way.

The Voice to Parliament and Executive Government is another hot one.

The way the narrative is being presented, if you do not support the yes vote you are racist. You are either racist and voting no or not racist and voting yes.

In this new world there are only good guys and bad guys. You can’t possibly want indigenous people to be recognised and their lot to be improved and, yet, vote no to the voice because you are concerned about changing the constitution and the fact you do not understand how the voice is going to operate as a bureaucratic entity.

You might want more information, more certainty about how it will work, a better explanation of the legal and bureaucratic impact but in this world of good guys and bad guys you are racist and that’s why you’re voting no.

What does this adversarial world that lacks grey areas mean for real estate?

A listing agent like me works for the seller. The seller pays my commission and a central part of my legal and ethical obligations is that I do everything I can to get the best possible price for the seller.

Does that mean I don’t care about buyers? Do I think the buyer is an adversary, someone who has to be defeated for the sale to be considered successful? No, that would be ridiculous.

The real world is not one of adversarial conflict and extremes. The fact that I work for the seller does not mean I work against the buyer.

My first duty is absolutely to the sellers but to successfully negotiate a contract for them I need to keep the deal together … that means I need to understand and communicate the buyer’s concerns and reservations.

I need to be able to move between the buyer and seller so that the seller understands what is going on, what the obstructions might be to getting a deal done.

In a world that tries to create a simplified divide of friends/enemies, good guys/bad guys, republicans/monarchist, environmentalists/climate deniers, progressives/right-wing extremists, there is room for an agent to work all-in for a seller while creating a friendly, informative, respectful and engaging environment for the buyer.

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