What’s on: Mackay, Whitsundays, Isaac events for 2022

2022 is jam-packed already with events right across the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsundays. Check out the long weekend events near you.

If you have an event you would like us to feature, please email [e-mail]

Mackay Park Run

Where: Every Saturday, 7am to 8am

Where: Meet at Tamarind carpark (near playground)

What’s On: A 5km run, jog or walk put on by the community for the community every Saturday morning for all ages. Go together to enjoy the beautiful natural environment and get physically active in the process.

How to book: Register here

Ken Burgess Orchid House

When: Monday to Friday, 10-11am and 2-3pm. Sunday, 10-2pm and closed on public holidays

Where: Queens Park

What’s happening: Kids and adults will love the beautiful and rare orchids on display at the Ken Burgess Display House within the beautiful Queens Park. Stroll through the display, which houses an astounding variety of orchids, all flowering at different times of the year.

Botanic Gardens Nature Passport Trail

When: Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm (except public holidays)

Where: Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens

Greenmount Homestead

When: Monday to Wednesday 9am, 10am, 11am, noon (during school holidays)

Where: Greenmount Rd, Walkerston

What’s happening: Take a step back in time and educate your children on the history of our region when you explore the iconic Greenmount Homestead. As one of Mackay’s most valued historic attractions, the grounds contain several buildings including a 1915 Queenslander homestead which houses a collection of more than 20,000 historical items. Entry fees are waived for kids during the school holidays.

Mackay Easter: Chloe Davies, 9, from Eimeo. Picture: Melanie Whiting

Mackay Farmers’ Market

When: Wednesdays, 6.30am to 10.30am

Where: Bluewater Quay

What’s happening: The farmers’ market showcases local, fresh produce and value added products from the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday regions. The Mackay Farmers’ Markets gives locals and visitors the opportunity to buy direct from the farmers.

Moscow Circus

When: Wednesday, April 13 to Sunday, May 1, various times available

Where: Mackay Showgrounds on Milton St

What’s happening: An all new extreme show featuring Australia’s top trial riders, The Flair Riders, exciting juggling and the world’s best daredevil motorcycle cage riders. Breathtaking aerial performances and much more.

How to book: Tickets $25 to $70, book here

Dinkum Assorted

When: Thursday, April 21 to Sunday, May 1, 7.30pm or 2pm

Where: Kucom Theatre

What’s happening: Dinkum Assorted is a play by Linda Aronson and directed by Luana Royle and will be presented in the theatre from April 21, 23, 28, 30 and with a matinee on Sunday, May 1 at 2pm. The play is set is in wartime 1942, the tiny time town of Warrabadanga is devoid of me, fathers, brothers and sons have gone to war.

How to book: Tickets $15Book here

Friday Jazz Music - Out of Abingdon

When: Friday, April 22, 7.30pm until 10.30pm

Where: Seabreeze Hotel

What’s happening: A night of jazz kicking off with Australian blues and groove duo Out of Abington.

How to book: Free event.

Reggae Night with DJ FUNKY

When: Saturday evening, April 23

Where: Northern Beaches Bowls Club

What’s happening: DJ FUNKY has put together a night of dancing to some of the best reggae artists of all time.

How to book: Free event.

Taste Ramadan

When: Saturday, April 23, 5.30pm

Where: 6A Flinders Court, Bakers Creek

What’s happening: The Islamic Society of Mackay is inviting residents to an Iftar dinner, a celebratory meal to break a religious fast, at the Bakers Creek mosque. The dinner is a mosque initiative to welcome people from all backgrounds and faiths to connect with local community and learn about each other cultures and beliefs.

How to book: RSVP at [e-mail] or phone [phone].

Metal Takes Over

When: Saturday, April 23, 7pm

Where: Carlons Hotel, Sarina

What’s happening: Four bands will be taking over Carlons Hotel for the night turning it into a metal haven. Catch Exotic Potion Cookies, Ancient Remains, Pistons First and Systematic Machine.

How to book: Entry is free.

Cowboy Dressage Gathering

When: Saturday, April 23 8am until April 24, 5pm

Where: Finch Hatton

What’s happening: Schooling shows and Gatherings are a great way to test skills and receive feedback from a judge on a ride. Tests emphasize kindness, soft feel, and partnership and will be available to open, amateur and junior riders.

How to book: A position in the event can be booked for $20 here.

Take a Kid Fishing Day

When: Sunday, April 24, 7.30am registration for an 8am start

Where: Front Beach, Midge Point

What’s happening: Take children down to the Midge Point’s front beach and create memories at this free Midge Point Fishing and Recreational Club event with a free sausage sizzle. No gear? No worries. Mudskippa has supplied rod and reels for use during the event while Reel Man’s Bait is supplying the bait. There are prizes for the kids and a rod will be up for grabs via a raffle.

Lift the Lid Walk

When: Sunday, April 24, 10am to 2pm

Where: The walk starts and finishes atBluewater Quay, Mackay

What’s happening: Walk a long way – or just a little – every step counts for Rotary Mackay Corporate’s Lift the Lid Walk. The walk funds research, through Australian Rotary Health, which delivers the knowledge and tools for local mental health organisations to use on the ground in Mackay. Check-ins and late registrations on the day begin from 7am with the walk starts at 9am. Local mental health organisations will be at the Bluewater Quay start-finish point where participants can catch-up for a chat about issues for themselves, friends or family before and after the walk.

How to book: Visit www.liftthelidwalk.com.au/mackay

Karaoke Under the Stars

When: 1-4pm on Sunday, April 24

Where: Eimeo Surf Life Saving Supporters Club

What’s happening: Everyone is welcome to enjoy an afternoon of fun, singing and dancing.

How to book: Bookings are essential, email louise at [e-mail]

Sarina Markets

When: 7.30am until midday on Sunday, April 24

Where: Sarina Showgrounds

What’s happening: Stalls of goodies will be set up at the Sarina Showground with something for everyone.

How to book: The event is free to attend.

Anzac Day and Two-Up at Harrup Park

When: From 5.30pm, Monday, April 25

Anzac Day at The Surf Club Mackay

When: 11am-4pm, Monday, April 25

Where: The Surf Club Mackay

What’s happening: The surf club will be open for an extended lunch on Anzac Day.

How to book: Bookings are essential 4955 5425 or [e-mail]

Pioneer Bonsai Mackay Workshop

When: 1-4pm April 24

Where: Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens

What’s happening: Pioneer Bonsai Mackay are holding their monthly bonsai workshops at the Botanic Gardens Meeting Room and are eager to welcome other bonsai enthusiasts.

How to book: No booking required.

Anzac Day at the Bowlsie

When: From midday Monday, April 25

Where: Mackay Northern Beaches Bowls Club

What’s happening: Two-up in the Rosewood from 1pm and footy and cricket on the big screen.

How to book: The event is free to attend.

Anzac Day AFL Fixture: City v Country

When: 12.3pm Monday, April 25

Where: Magpies Sporting Club

What’s happening: It’s a tried and tested battle, where the best city players fight it out against the best country players in an Anzac Day game of AFL. Face painting, a jumping castle and food trucks will be ready for spectators to enjoy.

How to book: Adults can enter for $6 and children under 12 for a gold coin donation.

BMA Kidspace

When: Tuesday, April 26, 10am-2pm

Where: Artspace Mackay

What’s happening: Artspace Mackay is transformed into BMA Kidspace and creativity, music and laughter reign supreme.

Mackay Region Chamber Federal Election Q&A

When: 5.45pm until 8pm Wednesday, April 27

Where: Windmill Motel and Events Centre, Mount Pleasant

What’s happening: With the election around the corner, Dawson candidates are lining up for a question and answer session.

How to book: Tickets are available for $50 for Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce members and $80 for non members here.

Beergustation

When: April 28 at 6.30pm

Where: The Dispensary Mackay

What’s happening: Liam from Ballistic Whitsundays is hosting a Beergustation featuring five unique Ballistic beers each paired with food designed by The Dispensary’s head chef.

How to book: Places can be purchased for $125 here.

Graeme Connors Back After a Short Break

When: Friday, April 29, 7.30pm

Where: MECC Auditorium

What’s happening: Join Graeme Connors and his band In Concert, with classic hits, favourites, and new songs from the pen of Australia’s finest singer songwriter.

How to book: Tickets $45.10 to $72.60. Book here

Boomerang Hotel Re-Opening Welcome Weekend

When: The pub will reopen on Saturday, April 23 with a welcome weekend from April 29 to May 1, 2022

Where: Boomerang Hotel, Mackay

What’s happening: The Boomerang Hotel will reopen after a $2 million renovation with everyone invited to come and enjoy the new and improved venue.

Friday April 29: Pimp My BBQ, chicken skewers with choices of gourmet toppings.

Friday April 29: Live music, free roving chef snacks and lucky door prizes.

Saturday April 30: Live acoustic music, free roving snacks and other events in the gaming room.

Sunday May 1: Family Fun Day with live music, facepainting and kids eating free with the purchase of an adult meal.

How to book: Free event.

Pointglen’s Movie Under The Stars 2022

When: Saturday, April 30, 5.30pm to 9.30pm

Where: Shoal Point Waters, Beachway Boulevard

What’s happening: Take the family to Shoal Point Waters for a fun-filled night under the stars watching a family friendly movie.

How to book: This is a free event, register here

PBR Bull Pit Bull Bash

When: Saturday, April 30, 2pm to midnight

Where: Dittmann Bucking Bulls and The Bull Pit, Midge Point

What’s happening: Spectators can camp and watch professional bull riders giving it their all in the new multi-million dollar Bull Pit. The family friendly event will feature live music from Zac Cross Band and DJ Country along with a side show alley and children’s rides.

How to book: Tickets are available for 16+ for $40 and children five to 15 for $15. Book here

MAY

The Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow

When: Thursday May 5, 7.30pm

Where: MECC Auditorium

What’s happening: The Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow is hitting the highways to home-deliver the freshest and funniest from the 2022 Festival to neighbourhoods across the nation. For 24 years, the Roadshow has presented an all killer, no filler line-up of Australian stars and talented newcomers to comedy fans far and wide. Buckle up for a night of stand-up, sketch, satire, silliness and song in this rip-roaring road trip designed to satisfy all your post-pandemic comedy cravings.

How to book: Tickets $22-$42. Book here

Creedence – The John Fogerty Show

When: Friday May 6, 8pm

Where: Northern Beaches Bowls Club

What’s happening: Creedence The John Fogerty Show pays tribute to the classic and timeless rock music of brilliant songwriter, guitarist and singer, John Fogerty – legendary frontman of Creedence Clearwater Revival. Fogerty and CCR’s music has become some of the most important and influential soundtracks of all time, and this production takes audiences on a rock ‘n roll journey through the swamps and bayous of America’s South in the late 60s and early 70s.

50 years on — Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody

When: Saturday, May 7, 7.30pm

Where: MECC Auditorium

What’s happening: Following a hugely successful sellout tour, Queen Bohemian Rhapsody is returning with a Brand New show in 2022 performing all of Queen’s ‘Greatest Hits’ and a few of the most popular songs on their albums 50 years on. Now, fresh off the heels of the successful Bohemian Rhapsody movie, comes The World’s Premier Queen Tribute Experience from Internationally Renowned Freddie Mercury Tribute Artist Thomas Crane. Thomas with his All Star Band Bohemian Rhapsody bring back to life the visual excitement, sound and stage energy as witnessed at a Queen concert.

How to book: Tickets $49.90-$79.90. Book here

Joy of Life – High Tea and Timeless Classics

When: Saturday May 7, 11.30am

Where: Sporting Wheelies, Bridge Road South Mackay.

What’s happening: With One Voice Mackay and Surrounds Choir will perform, followed by a high tea. Take someone significant as a treat, or treat yourself.

How to book: Tickets $25 to $30, book here

Jayco Mackay Italian Street Party

When: Saturday May 14, 3pm to 9pm

Where: Wood and Victoria Street, Mackay

What’s happening: The entire Mackay region is invited to an open air, free entry event that will showcase the very best Italian culture has to offer. The streets will turn into a sea of green, white and red, with Italian food, drink and entertainment, at the very least as good as any in Italy. On stage will be the famous tenor, Paul Tabone and the vibrant accordionist Domenico. Taraborrelli and his band will again get you up and dancing. Other artists and dancers will fill the streets with entertainment.

Mackay Mayor’s Charity Ball

When: Saturday, May 14, 6.30pm

Where: MECC

What’s happening: Disco is the theme for this year’s charity ball. The Mayor has adopted Heart Kids as his charity recipient for the second year in a row but is also adopting Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia, which is close to raising enough money to build a family room at Mackay Base Hospital.

How to book: Tickets $195, or $190 for a table of 10. Book here

Farleigh State School Palm Fete

When: Sunday May 15, 7am

Where: Farleigh State School, Chidlow St

What’s happening: The school will celebrate the 25th year of its popular fete. Go along to check out the garden market, with a huge range of locally grown indoor and outdoor plants, garden products, plant exhibitions as well as market crafts and food stalls.

Shrek the Musical

When: Thursday May 19 to Saturday May 21, 8pm

Where: MECC

What’s happening: Based on the Oscar-winning DreamWorks Animation film, Shrek The Musical is a Tony Award-winning fairy tale adventure that brings all the beloved characters you know to life onstage. Once upon a time, there was a little ogre named Shrek – an unlikely hero who finds himself on a life-changing journey alongside a wisecracking Donkey and a feisty princess.

How to book: Tickets $24- $39, book here

Nebo Hotel Street Party

When: Friday May 20, 4pm

Where: Nebo Hotel

What’s Happening: It’s rodeo time! Nebo Hotel is putting a pre-rodeo family friendly event with performers such as Bella Mackenzie and James Johnston, mini eat street, stalls and free kids entertainment.

How to book: This is a ticketed event separate to the rodeo. Tickets range in price for adults, families and children.

Legends on the Lawn

When: Saturday, May 21

Where: Harrup Park

What’s happening: Mackay will play host to a number of legends of the Australian music industry in a spectacular live music event. Jimmy Barnes will be the headline act but he will be joined by a stellar line up including The Living End, Jon Stevens, Vanessa Amorosi, Busby Marou and Christine Anu for Legends on the Lawn. Read more.

How to book: General admission tickets are $128.90 and will be on sale now. Book here.

Toyota Nebo Rodeo 2022

When: Saturday, May 21 to Sunday, May 22

Where: Nebo Showgrounds

What’s happening: Grab your hats, dust off your boots and roll up your swag — it’s Rodeo time. Mackay Toyota Nebo Rodeo is on again with a weekend full of cowboy action. Enjoy a great weekend full of local events including full open, rookie and junior events. Nebo Hotel will also host a street party with musician Luke Geiger.

How to book: Buy tickets before arrival with ticket information soon to be released.

NEBO RODEO 2019: Dallas Hay 2nd Div Bareback Bronc Ride

The Annual Giant Garage Sales Sarina Beach

When: Sunday, May 22, 2022 from 7am

Where: Sarina and Campwin Beach

What’s happening: Hunt for a bargain at an annual garage sale where Sarina and Campwin Beach household’s shed treasure troves of unwanted goods.

How to book: Residents can register their household in the garage sale for $10 at the Sarina Beach store from May 1 to May 21. Maps for shoppers will be available from the store on the morning of the sales.

Cruisin’ the Coast Sarina Fun Run

When: Sunday, May 22, 2022

Where: Sarina Surf Lifesaving Club, Sarina Beach

What’s happening: Cruisin’ the Coast now has five events on offer including a new half marathon when the Sarina run returns. Participants can run or walk in the various events, making the fun run suitable for all fitness levels.

How to book: For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.sarinafunrun.com.au

Queensland Symphony Orchestra presents Classical Favourites

When: Wednesday May 25, 11am and 7.30pm

Where: MECC Auditorium

What’s happening: Queensland Symphony Orchestra Connect ensemble presents an evening concert packed with classical favourites from Prokofiev ‘the king of Russian ballet’ to Grieg’s tiptoeing masterpiece ‘In the Hall of the Mountain King’. Marvel as 13 talented musicians from Queensland Symphony Orchestra showcase their talent and artistry performing much-loved favourites.

How to book: Tickets $15-$42. Book here

DBCT Kids’ Theatre Season 2022 – Edward the Emu

When: Thursday May 26 to Friday May 27, 6pm, 9.30am and 12.30pm

Where: MECC Auditorium

What’s happening: Edward is bored with his lot. Being the only emu at the zoo has left him feeling glum and under the impression that the grass is greener in everyone else’s enclosure.

How to book: Tickets $16.50 admission and $60 for a family, book here

Positive Pregnancy and Birth Expo

When: Saturday, May 28, 9am to 1pm

Where: Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre

What’s happening: This one-day event is set to connect women and families with local services that can better their experience during pre-conception, pregnancy, birth and post-partum and will feature more than 30 local services. With about 2000 babies now being born in Mackay annually, it is the perfect time for the expo to visit the region.

How to book: Entry is free. RSVP here

RACQ CQ Rescue Emergency Services Day

When: Sunday, May 29

Where: Harrup Park, Mackay

What’s happening: Emergency Services Day is a fun and educational community day designed to showcase the region’s essential emergency services and crews and to promote effective emergency and disaster relief plans. Fire trucks, police cars and motorbikes, Army vehicles as well as marine rescue boats and helicopters will be on display for the kids to check out as well as chat to the crews who are our lifeline in times of disaster. The family fun day will include numerous educational and interactive exhibits and hands-on demonstrations. There will be free family entertainment including face painting and jumping castles for the kids, food and beverages available for purchase and plenty of educational resources and giveaways.

JUNE

Xavier Rudd – Jan Juc Moon Tour 2022

When: Thursday, June 2, 7pm

Where: MECC Auditorium

What’s happening: The wind blows strong through Xavier Rudd’s tenth album. It is a recurring image that speaks of wide-open space and the awesome natural elements that shape it: a force far greater than us, but ours to harness if we take the time to learn, reflect and respect its ways.

How to book: Tickets $89.90, book here

Echoes of Pink Floyd

When: Friday June 3, 7.30pm

Where: MECC Auditorium

What’shappening: Entitled “A Journey Through Time”, the Adelaide-based band’s latest show will take audiences on a musical and visual journey from Pink Floyd’s earliest days as darlings of 1960s London’s psychedelic underground, all the way to their 1990s powerhouse performances as the undisputed masters of stadium rock.

How to book: Tickets $75 for adult, $70 for concession, $45 for children under 18 and $70 for a group of 10, book here

Strassman – The Chocolate Diet

When: Saturday June 4, 7pm

Where: MECC

What’s happening: From London to New York, David Strassman’s comic genius has shocked and surprised. Now it’s Mackay’s turn to experience Strassman’s uproarious comedy with those infamous favourites, the loveable Ted E. Bare and the evil Chuck Wood. Strassman’s newest show is The Chocolate Diet. Ted E. Bare’s health quest is hilariously painful, and one we can relate to. Meanwhile, Chuck is going through an identity crisis. Strassman is one of Australia’s favourite comedian’s, a master of his art.

How to book: Tickets $79 to $49.90. The performance is rated MA. Children 12 to 15 years old must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. No one under 12 admitted. Book here.

Finch Hatton Flea Market

When: Sunday June 5, 9am-2pm

Where: Finch Hatton Central, 22 Anzac Parade

What’s happening: Items range from old shed tools and machinery to kitchen items and everything in between.

World of Musicals

When: Sunday June 5, 6pm

Where: MECC Auditorium

What’s happening: This incredible production with the wonderful revue of all your favourite musical theatre hits which include such classics as The Lion King, Fiddler on the Roof, Mamma Mia, We Will Rock You, The Mikado, The Pirates of Penzance, HMS Pinafore, The Phantom of the Opera, West Side Story, Cats, Evita, Wicked, The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Jesus Christ Superstar, The Greatest Showman, Jersey Boys, Oklahoma, South Pacific, Miss Saigon, The Boy from OZ, Hairspray, Les Misérables, The Blues Brothers. The World of Musicals is colourful, inspiring and memorable musical classics, all performed by an International star-studded cast, presenting the audience with nightly entertainment at the highest level.

How to book: Tickets $59.90-$79.90. Book here

DBCT Kids’ Theatre Season 2020

When: Wednesday June 8, 9.30am

Where: MECC Auditorium

What’s happening: Stampede into the jungle for a circus extravaganza that will leave you chuckling like a monkey and roaring for more. Lions and tigers and dummies, oh my. Set up camp and stampede into the jungle for an outlandish, circus filled extravaganza that will leave you chuckling like a monkey and roaring for more.

How to book: Tickets $16.50 admission or $60 for a family admission, book here

Mackay Beach Horse Races 2022

When: Friday, June 10, Saturday, June 11

Where: Beach Harbour

What’s happening: The annual Mackay Airport Beach Horse Races is an iconic event on North Queensland’s sporting and social calendar. The race day is attended by more than 3000 locals and attracts many visitors to the region. For more information click here

ACDC Story

When: June 11, 7.30pm

Where: MECC North Foyer

What’s happening: It is important to recognise The ACDC Story is not a tribute band, it is a full theatre production. Described as ‘Like watching a live movie documentary’.

A two-hour plus, live band in concert and narrated biography of the world’s greatest Rock n Roll band ACDC. More than 30 hits played as well as stories photos and interviews with this Iconic band. Narrated facts photos footage and moments this iconic Australian band experienced on their rise to stardom. This show is a must for any parent to educate their children in rock history.

How to book: Tickets $60-$65. book here

2022 Pioneer Valley Show

When: Sunday, June 12, 6am to 9pm

Where: Finch Hatton Showground

What’s happening: The Pioneer Valley Show is an iconic event in the community. It is widely regarded by fellow agricultural shows, patrons, exhibitors, site holders and entertainers as the best one day show in Queensland. A country-orientated fun, family day, this show consistently attracts crowds of more than 13,000 people and transforms the small town of Finch Hatton into a sea of colour and excitement.

How to book: Tickets $18 for adults, $8 for school students, $10 for all pensioners and $45 for a family pass, book here

2022 Mackay Annual Show

When: Tuesday, June 14 to Thursday, June 16.

Where: Mackay Showgrounds

What’s happening: The Mackay Show Association will host the 143rd Annual Mackay Show from June 14-16. This year’s show will once again showcase the region’s agriculture, equestrian events and sideshow alley, fireworks and entertainment. Family fun entertainment over three days.

2022 Show Whitsunday 

When: Friday June 17 and Saturday June 18

Where: Proserpine Showgrounds

What’s happening: Rides, sideshow alley, woodchopping, equestrian events will go ahead this year at Show Whitsunday.

Sugardrop Festival

When: Saturday, June 18

Where: Harrup Park

What’s happening: Tia Gostelow’s first annual hometown event. Lineup dropping soon.

Les Divas: An All-Male Revue

When: Saturday, June 18, 8pm

Where: MECC Auditorium

What’s happening: Australia’s six-foot something songstress Prada Clutch plays the Goddess of Pop; Cher in her new show set on the Las Vegas Strip featuring an all-star line-up of her most famous friends. The 90-minute all-male revue includes some of the world’s greatest divas including: Barbra Streisand, Shirley Bassey, Tina Turner, Mariah Carey, Beyonce, Whitney Houston, Celine Dion, Diana Ross and of course, Cher.

How to book: Tickets $68 for an adult, $62 for friend and MECC Card, $63 for pensioner and student, $61 for groups of more than 10, book here

JULY

Bliss N Eso – The Sun Tour

When: Friday, July 1, 7pm to 10pm

Where: Harrup Park

What’s happening: Hip hop act Bliss n Eso will visit Mackay as part of the band’s national tour. The three-time ARIA-award winning group will take its electric energy and unmatchable flow to audiences in every Australian state and territory in 2022.

How to book: Tickets $69.90. Book here

Bliss N Eso – The Sun Tour

When: Saturday, July 2, 7pm to 10pm

Where: Magnums Hotel

What’s happening: Hip hop act Bliss n Eso will also perform at Magnums while in Mackay as part of their tour of metro and regional venues throughout Australia.

How to book: Tickets $69.90, book here

Neil Gooding Productions present – Leap –

When: Saturday July 2, 7.30pm

Where: MECC Auditorium

What’s happening: Leap is an explosive new dance show created by Amy Campbell, one of Australia’s most exciting young creatives. Featuring ten of Australia’s foremost dancers and four extraordinary musicians, Leap re-imagines recognisable classical music into a modern soundtrack. A unique blend of dance and story, Leap will transport you into the lives of compelling characters in the effervescent and unknown world that is Leap. Do you stay where you are … or will you take the leap? What would you do to get everything you ever dreamt of?

How to book: Tickets $65 to $55, book here

Warrior Mackay Multisport Festival

When: Sunday, July 3

Where: Mackay Surf Club, Mackay Harbour

What’s happening: The multisport festival will have solo and team events for a triathlon, duathlon, aquabike and aquathlon.

How to book: Entry prices range from $59.85 to $265, book here

Vicar of Dibley 2

When: Thursday, July 14 to Saturday, July 23, 7.30pm or 2pm

Where: Kucom Theatre, 1 Snow Wright Court, Andergrove

What’s happening: The talented team at Kucom Theatre is having a second go at the ever popular Vicar of Dibley, adapted from original TV scripts by Richard Curtis and directed by Bronwyn Grannall. The show will be linked to the Mackay Fringe Festival in July.

How to book: Book here

Airlie Beach Marathon Festival

When: Saturday, July 16 to 17

Where: Airlie Beach

What’s happening: The Athletics North Queensland Championship Marathon is the feature race of the Airlie Beach Marathon Festival. The Tassal Group Airlie Beach Half Marathon will also run over the weekend as well as the Whitsunday Transit 10km fun run and other 5km, 2km and 1km run/walks. All races are held along the Airlie Beach and Cannonvale foreshores and cater for ages 4 and up. The 2021 marathon field was the biggest to date and even more athletes are expected this year.

How to book: Book here

Queensland Mining and Engineering Exhibition

When: July 19 to July 22

Where: Mackay Showgrounds

What’s happening: Exhibitions and demonstrations will be on display with attendees invited to participate in seminars and social networking. More than 230 suppliers will be present.

How to book: Attendance is free but if you are interested in exhibiting, phone Michael McAlister on [phone].

Mingle at Melba

When: Saturday, July 30

Where: Melba House

What’s happening: Following last year’s success, and overwhelming feedback to bring this event back for the Mackay Festival of Arts calendar of events, Mingle Events Co has locked in the date and planning is under way for this event to be even bigger and better in July 2022.

AUGUST

Roald Dahl and the Imagination Seekers

When: Wednesday, August 3, 6pm; Thursday, August 4, 9.30am and 12.30pm

Where: MECC Auditorium

What’s happening:

Inspired by the world’s No. 1 storyteller, Roald Dahl and the Imagination Seekers is a mischievous and inventive theatrical experience for families. All around the world, Roald Dahl’s words are disappearing, not only from books but children’s minds too. Now only a secret organisation, known as the ancient guild of Taletenders can save the stories – and they need your help. Roald Dahl and the Imagination seekers is an unforgettable interactive theatrical experience. Especially made for ages 6 and up, the show is an immersive and interactive performance, involving games and imaginative play, while exploring Roald Dahlʼs extraordinary stories, including The BFG and The Twits along the way. Show is 55 minutes, no interval.

How to book: Tickets $16.50, $60 for a family. Book here

NQ’s Rock’n Country

When: Friday, August 19 to Sunday, August 21, 8am to 11pm.

Where: Mackay Showgrounds

What’s happening: A three-day country music festival showcasing the best national and local country music artists, this is one party you will not want to miss out on. With 40 artists performing across three stages, over a massive three days. Camp sites are available on site for the three-day ticket holders, with plenty of food and stallholder options on site over the duration of the festival. For the campers, the party won’t stop after the main stage closes, with our campers only after-party.

How to book: Book here

SEPTEMBER

Whitsundays’ White on Whitehaven Long Lunch

When: Friday September 9 to Monday September 12

Where: Airlie Beach and Whitehaven Beach

What’s happening: Departing Airlie Beach in the morning, diners dressed in white will cruise to Whitehaven Beach to enjoy Fish D’Vines long lunch featuring bottomless champagne, beer and wine along with fresh local seafood.

How to book: Day tickets are $499. Book here

NOVEMBER

Creedence Clearwater Collective

When: Friday, November 4, 7.30pm

Where: MECC Auditorium

What’s happening: Join a celebration of Creedence Clearwater Revival; a walk-through the life and music of one of the world’s most iconic bands – from the songs they wrote, to the songs covered, to the songs they wrote for others. From the band’s album debut in 1968 to the last album in 1972, CCR was a juggernaut of phenomenal proportions. The Creedence Clearwater Collective is a six-piece band – with a guest Saxophonist and a vocalist that emulates John Fogerty’s distinct vocals – to capture the unique CCR sound.

How to book: Tickets $40-$69, book here