Top 10 things to do around the region

Published: 23 May 2022

There’s a great range of exciting events on this week across the region! Speak to the artists of a new exhibition at the Lagoons Gallery, see the Queensland Symphony Orchestra live, attend a candle lighting ceremony in Sarina for domestic violence, grab some native plants at a bargain price or enjoy a Party in the Park with your little ones.

1) BMA Kidspace

Tuesday, May 24, 10am to 2pm
Artspace Mackay
This free and ever popular toddler’s program gives children under five a chance to explore and have fun with art in a climate of co-operative learning. Drop-in anytime between 10am and 2pm (live children's music from 11.30am to 12.15pm) and bring your children along for a fun day of art-making, singing and dancing. Proudly presented by BHP Mitsubishi Alliance. Visit Artspace Mackay for more information.

2) Exhibition Opening – ‘Where a plant begins’ by Mackay’s Botanical Art Interest Group

Wednesday, May 25 to Sunday, June 22
Open Wednesday to Friday from 9am to 2pm, and weekends from 8am to 2pm
Lagoons Gallery, Botanic Gardens Cafe
In their latest exhibition, the botanical artists focus on a particular aspect of ‘where a plant begins’ or have portrayed the entire life cycle of a plant complete with flowers, seeds and features of their chosen plants. The showcase displays how the artists take live specimens and create a “living” piece of botanical art via their sketch books, photos and art materials. Visit Facebook events for more information.

> Meet the Artists – ‘Where a plant begins’ by Mackay’s Botanical Art Interest Group

Wednesday, May 25, 11am to 1pm
Lagoons Gallery, Botanic Gardens Cafe
Meet the artists from Mackay's Botanical Art Interest Group on opening day, to interpret their exhibition 'Where a Plant Begins' which is on display in the Lagoons Gallery within the Botanic Gardens Cafe. If you would like to attend or for more information, please contact Maya on 0436 331 009 or email mackayrbgfriends@gmail.com.

> Free guided walk – ‘Where a plant begins’

Friday, May 27, 10am to 11.30am
Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens
A lovely combination of an exhibition viewing of botanical art by the Mackay’s Botanical Art Interest Group in the Lagoon Gallery followed by a walk to see how some special plants of the Botanic Garden’s living collection begin. Bookings essential. Phone the Gardens on 4952 7300 to book your spot. Keep up to date by visiting their Facebook event.

3) The MECC and Queensland Symphony Orchestra presents Classical Favourites

Wednesday, May 25, 11am and 7.30pm  
MECC Auditorium

Queensland Symphony Orchestra Connect ensemble presents an evening concert packed with classical favourites from Prokofiev ‘the king of Russian ballet’ to Grieg’s tip-toeing 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. Book your tickets at the MECC.

4) DBCT Kids’ Theatre Season 2022 – Edward the Emu

Thursday, May 26, 6pm
Friday, May 27, 9.30am
Friday, May 27, 12.30pm – Relaxed Performance  
MECC Auditorium
The award-winning Monkey Baa team brings to the stage a new imagining of the classic Australian books by Sheena Knowles and Rob Clement. Edward, being the only emu at the zoo, is bored and feels that the grass is greener in everyone else’s enclosure. Maybe being a seal, or a lion, or a snake might be a better option in life for a lonely bird? Convinced that the other creatures are more popular, Edward breaks ranks and goes to find the fun and along the way. Suited for children between ages four to 10 with show duration of 50 mins (no intervals). To book tickets, visit the MECC.

5) Sarina Candle Lighting Ceremony

Friday, May 27, from 5pm
Anzac Park, Sarina
Join in the ceremony to remember those who have lost their lives as a result of domestic and family violence. Nibblies will be available. To keep up to date, visit Sarina Neighbourhood Centre Facebook event.

6) Reconciliation Week Movie Screenings

A time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, achievements and contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia. Both movies are part of a tribute to David Gulpilil, renowned indigenous Australian actor, and will involve round table discussions afterwards. These events are for adults aged 18 years and older. Bookings are essential.

> Storm Boy (PG)

Friday, May 27, 3pm to 5pm
Gordon White Library
Storm Boy lives a lonely life with his reclusive father on a desolate coastline, but when he forms a close bond with a pelican, Mr. Percival, his life takes a new and unexpected turn. Register

> The Tracker (M)

Monday, May 30, 2pm to 4pm
Dudley Denny City Library
When a white woman is murdered in 1920s Australia, a police officer ventures into the outback with a small crew in search of the aboriginal fugitive accused of the crime. In his group is a newcomer to the country, an old sage and an indigenous tracker who is not fully trusted by the racially prejudiced officer. As the pursuit through this dangerous territory drags on, tensions begin to rise between the crew members. Register

7) Positive Pregnancy & Birth Expo

Saturday, May 28, 9am to 1pm
The MECC
The expo showcases and connects women and families with services that can better their experience during pre-conception, pregnancy, birth and post-partum, while highlighting the many wonderful local businesses Mackay has to offer new and evolving families. There will be up to 30 booths showcasing local services including doulas, physios, photographers, massage therapy, private obstetricians and fertility support services as well as a host of expert speakers. Admission is free. Visit the MECC website to find out more.

8) Native Plants Queensland Native Plant Sale

Saturday, May 28, 9am to 1pm
Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens Nursery, Cowley’s Road
Don’t miss this opportunity to buy a range of native plants from as low as $3. Selections are made easy with colour-coded labelling and species numbers, with friendly society members on hand to help. Park your car in the Meadowlands Amphitheatre carpark, off Alexandra Street, and walk over to the nursery. For more information and details of species available, head to their Facebook page.

9) Cocktail Masterclass  

Saturday, May 28, 4pm to 5pm
Sarina Sugar Shed
Attention cocktail lovers! Don't miss Sarina Sugar Shed’s next cocktail masterclass. Not only do you make (and drink) your own cocktails, but the price includes yummy nibbles with lots of fun included! Book online or call on (07) 4943 2801. Limited spots are available so don’t delay.

10) Party in the Park

Tuesday, May 31, from 9am to 11.30am
Mackay Regional Council Lawns (Civic Precinct)
Party in the Park is happening again in Mackay! There will be jumping castles, free face painting, ice-cream van and a petting zoo, along with more than 30 stallholders in attendance. This event aims to connect families that have children under five, with local no cost, low cost and age specific services within the Mackay region. Great opportunity to meet other families with young children. Keep up to date, visit council’s Facebook event.

Reminders:

Lots on at the MECC next week.….

With some many great performances on at the MECC this year, why not become a member and SAVE! Members receive discounted tickets to a wide range of selected shows, exclusive access to special offers and pre-sales and ticket giveaways and competitions. To find out more and join, visit MECC Membership.

> Xavier Rudd ‘Jan Juc Moon’ Tour 2022

Thursday, June 2, 7pm Book tickets

> Echoes of Pink Floyd

Friday, June 3, 7.30pm Book tickets

> Foster Entertainment Presents David Strassman – The Chocolate Diet

Saturday, June 4, 7pm Book tickets

> The World of Musicals

Sunday, June 5, 6pm Book tickets

Printbank Think Tank

Thursday, June 2, 5.30pm to 7pm
Artspace Mackay
Artspace and Printbank Mackay are getting together to take a closer look at selected finalists’ works in the 2022 Libris Awards that feature various printmaking techniques. If you are a lover of printmaking and have an interest in learning more about effects that can be achieved through various printmaking methods in combination with different types of papers and formats, you should come along! To find out more and book your free spot, visit artspacemackay.eventbrite.com.

Mackay Beach Horse Races

Friday, June 10 to Sunday, June 12
Harbour Beach
The iconic Mackay Beach Horse Races, one of the top social and tourism events in Queensland, are back and are expected to be bigger than ever attracting up to 3000 locals and visitors! With three days of entertainment including top Australian and local DJ’s, food, VIP packages, horse racing, Fashions on the Sand, market stalls and a recovery session on Sunday, there is something for everyone. Find out more and book your tickets at mackaybeachhorseraces.com.au.