Top 10 things to do around the region

1) Upcycled T-Shirt Bathmats – Made by You!  

Wednesday, May 4, 11.30am to 12.30pm
Gordon White Library
What better way to save our planet by upcycling your old t-shirts into another useful item – a bathmat! This event is for adults aged 18 and above. Bookings essential through Eventbrite.

2) STEAM Club – Magformer Construction  

Wednesday, May 4, 3.30pm to 4.30pm
Gordon White Library
We will be building some creative engineering projects with the Magformer magnet shapes. Explore the fascinating world of science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics. STEAM club is specifically designed for children in year three to year six. Bookings through Eventbrite are essential for all attendees.

3) The MECC presents Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow

Thursday, May 5, 7.30pm
MECC Auditorium
The Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow is hitting the highways to 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. Book now for that much-needed live comedy fix at www.themecc.com.au. (Recommended for 15+ years. Performances often contain language, adult themes, sexual references and material that may offend. Smoke machine/hazer may be used).

4) Careers Development – Career Workshop

Friday, May 6, 9am to 10.30am
Gordon White Library
Join us for an informative and interactive workshop focussing on exploring pathways to gaining your dream job. You will gain knowledge on creating a captivating resume and learn how to nail that interview. Participate in a career assessment that will assist attendees in choosing the right career pathway, then determine what steps are needed and how to apply for your dream job. Bookings are essential through Eventbrite.

5) Learning to Drum  

Friday, May 6, 9.30am to 10am, Mirani Library
Friday, May 6, 11am to 11.30am, Walkerston Library
Friday, May 6, 1.30pm to 2pm, Sarina Library
If you are new to musical instruments, this is a perfect start to your musical development. You will have the opportunity to learn some practical skills quickly and in a supportive learning environment. Drums will be provided for this session. This event is for adults aged 18 years or older. Bookings through Eventbrite.

6) Free Guided Walk in the Gardens – Flower Trail

Friday, May 6, 10am to 11.30am
Meet at the Botanic Gardens Visitor Information
Bring your mum to a special walk where we discover some of the delightful flowers at the Botanic Gardens. Many are small and white, others are boldly coloured but all have a story to tell. Afterwards treat mum and yourself to either a cuppa and sweet treat or a delicious lunch at the Botanic Gardens Cafe before the rush of Mother’s Day. Maya will be your guide for this walk. To book your spot, phone 4952 7300. Visit their Facebook event to find out more.

7) NRL Telstra Premiership - Sydney Roosters v Gold Coast Titans

Saturday, May 7, from 5.30pm
BB Print Stadium
NRL action returns to BB Print Stadium when the Sydney Roosters take on the Gold Coast Titans in round 9 of the premiership. Secure your tickets now to see some of the biggest names in rugby league go head-to-head in the only NRL Telstra Premiership match to be played in Mackay in 2022! Tickets available online only. Book at www.themecc.com.au.

8) 50 Years On – Queen Bohemian Rhapsody

Saturday, May 7, from 7.30pm
MECC Auditorium
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 with his all-star band. Known for their stage presence, flamboyance, theatrics and energy, these traits will be brought to the stage in a rendition of a Queen live experience. Don’t miss out! Book online at www.themecc.com.au.

9) Mother’s Day Buffet Breakfast

Sunday, May 8, 8am to 11am
Botanic Gardens Cafe
Treat mum to a delicious full buffet breakfast at the Botanic Gardens Café overlooking the lagoon, including eggs/salmon benedict and fresh baked croissants and pastries. Only $29.90 per person and $15 per child under 12 years (pre-paid). Bookings are essential by calling the café or texting on 0423 375 280. Visit their Facebook page for more information and to pre-pay online.

10) Exhibition – ‘Blooming Flowers and Cheeky Animals’ by Pamela Finger

Until Sunday, May 22
Open Wednesday to Friday from 9am to 2pm, and weekends from 8am to 4pm
Lagoons Gallery, Botanic Gardens Cafe
Discover the amazing works of local artist, Pamela Finger, as she highlights her passion for native wildflowers and iconic animals using the bright medium of pastels. Drawing on her experience from photography, gardening and strong interest in botanical art and native plants with local groups, Pamela has created many of the paintings from images captured in the Botanic Gardens. To find out more, visit the Botanic Gardens Facebook event or on their website.

Reminders:

Mackay Mayor’s Charity Ball 2022

Saturday, May 14, 6.30pm
MECC Plenary Halls
Saturday night fever will take over the MECC as the prestigious Mackay Mayor's Charity Ball returns. Amazing auction items and prizes are up for grabs, with funds raised going to the Ronald McDonald Charity House North Australia and HeartKids. Dust off the dancing shoes and dance away to the Redtie Band performing all your disco faves from the 70’s. Time to get your group together and follow the disco ball to the MECC for a blockbuster night to remember. Tickets for this black-tie event close Friday, May 6 and include a delicious three-course meal, wine, beer, basic spirits, soft drink and water. Tickets available at www.themecc.com.au.

Mackay Musical Comedy Players present ‘Shrek The Musical’

Thursday, May 19, 8pm  
Friday, May 20, 8pm 
Saturday, May 21, 2pm and 8pm
MECC Auditorium
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. Shrek proves that beauty is truly in the eye of the ogre and sends the message to value individuality. Don’t miss this hugely popular local performance by the Mackay Musical Comedy Players. Book you tickets online at www.themecc.com.au.