Top 10 things to do around the region

Published: 20 Feb 2019

There is plenty to do around the region this week.. Celebrate the beauty of every woman as ‘role models’ walk the Real Body Runway at The Just Saying Project, don’t miss exclusive deals at the 2019 Helloworld Travel Expo on Saturday and for the first time in Australia, the hit musical production, Nashville Live, takes you through the history of country music live at the MECC.

1) Author Visit – Jenn J McLeod

Wednesday, February 20, 6pm
Mirani Library

After leaving the corporate world and deciding to travel Australia in a fifth-wheeler caravan, Jenn J McLeod is fulfilling her lifelong ambition to write. Since 2013 she’s had five novels published and is touring the country to champion her Paddock to Print philosophy. All welcome, no bookings required. https://bit.ly/2UOPz34

2) TWO

Thursday, February 21, 7.30pm
MECC Auditorium

Set in the local pub, you’ll meet all the regulars, a misfit crowd of eccentric and hilarious individuals. There’s Moth, who loves Maud (and every other woman) fervently; Mrs Iger, with her passion for quiet, strong men; possessive Roy, jealous of anybody who looks at Lesley (even the darts players); Alice and Fred and their Elvis obsession; and the publicans themselves – a married couple with an unspoken secret…

3) Director’s Floor Talk

Friday, February 22, 5.30pm  
Field Engineers Gallery, Artspace Mackay

Obsessed: Compelled to make! Official opening, 6pm, free event, all welcome. This is an AUSLAN Interpreted event. This Australian Design Centre touring exhibition explores the preoccupations that drive the creative process, moving beyond the finished work, to tell the hidden stories of making, uncovering the artists’ inspirations, day-to-day studio experiences, hours of expertise, and the joys and frustrations of obsession. Join Artspace Mackay Gallery Director Tracey Heathwood for a floor talk of this exhibition, then stay afterwards for the official opening of two exhibitions, Obsessed: Compelled to make, and Foundations in Drawing. Both the floor talk, and the official speeches at 6:30pm will be Auslan interpreted. www.artspacemackay.com.au

4) The Just Saying Project presents Real Body Runway

Friday, February 22, 6pm
MECC North Foyer

Celebrate the beauty of every woman. This body positive event will feature style and stories from fabulous females while shining a light on self-acceptance and body love. 'Role models' from the Mackay community will walk the Real Body Runway and share their inner fashionista and what fashion and beauty means to them.

5) 2019 Helloworld Travel Expo

Saturday, February 23, 10am to 3pm
MECC Plenary Halls
Don’t miss the exclusive expo deals, free travel seminars, expert travel advice and the chance to win some great prizes!

6) Kids Art Club – Term One

Starting Saturday, February 23, 10am
Artspace Mackay

Have you booked your child’s spot? Kids Art Club is Artspace Mackay’s ongoing term-based Saturday art program for kids. Taught by renowned local artist Rosemary Payne, Rosemary delivers a rich six-week program of creative art for kids in two age groups. Each week they explore and respond to the exhibitions on show at Artspace Mackay through fun-filled art activities. Attendees will learn new techniques and make art with all kinds of exciting creative art materials. The fee is $160 per child for six weeks and includes art materials each week. To book call 4961 9722.

7) Nashville Live

Sunday, February 24, 7.30pm
MECC Auditorium

For the very first time in Australia, the hit musical production Nashville Live delivers the energy, glamour and magic of the city it’s named after. Nashville Live takes you through the history of country music from golden greats Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson and Dolly Parton, through to the contemporary platinum selling sounds of Shania Twain, Garth Brooks, Dixie Chicks and more. This live show is a celebration of country music and the stories behind the genre’s biggest hits.

8) Yak About It

Monday, February 25, 6.30pm  
MECC Auditorium

This is an event for carers and those they care for to be entertained and informed with like-minded people and hear the latest assistance available to them. Join us for a night of laughter with internationally acclaimed comedian and founder of The Laughter Clinic, Mark McConville, and be enlivened by the music of popular North Queensland guitarist and singer, DrewBoy. Grant Westthorp, the creator of the WellMan App and CEO of the Men’s Resource Centre will also be facilitating the evening of enjoyment for all.

9) Active in the City – Time out Tai Chi

Every Monday, 5.15pm
Bluewater Quay, River Street

Great for that after work wind down.  Beginners always welcome. Each Monday from 5.15pm explore different tai chi forms and feel the calmness through movement of Time Out Tai Chi. No need to know left from right, just bring your smile. Please wear cool comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking and bring a water bottle. https://bit.ly/2E5OWM3

10) Greater Whitsundays Farmers’ Market

Every Wednesday, 7am to 11am  
Bluewater Quay, River Street

Join the Fresh Local Produce Revolution and support our farmers by buying seasonal local produce straight from the farmer. https://bit.ly/2FT49m3

Reminders:

NRL Trial Match – Cowboys vs Storm

Saturday, March 2, gate open at 11.30am
BB Print Stadium

Watch the NQ Cowboys go head to head with the Melbourne Storm in the final NRL trial match before the 2019 season begins. Gates will open at 11.30am with games throughout the afternoon in the lead up to the main game at 7:00pm. https://bit.ly/2DT3C0S

AFL – JLT Gold Coast SUNS vs Western Bulldogs

Sunday, March 3, from 4pm
Harrup Park

See the biggest and best AFL stars play in Mackay. Gold Coast Suns take on the Western Bulldogs at 6.40pm. You´ve seen the rest, now see the BEST. Footy, Food Vendors and Fun for the Family. https://bit.ly/2TWP5Ij

Mackay Airport Twilight City Run

Friday, March 1, 5pm
BCC Cinemas, Wood Street

Everyone is welcome. Walk, run, skip, dance your way. Prams welcome.  Bring the whole family. $10 adults, $5 students. Please pay cash. All funds raised go to the Leukaemia Foundation. Start and finish at the BCC Cinemas, Wood Street, Mackay City Centre.
https://mackaymarinarun.com/mackay-airport-twilight-city-run/