Top 10 things to do in the region

Published: 06 Apr 2021

There’s lots to do around the region next week, with plenty of school holiday activities continuing to keep the kids entertained.

1) Gordon White Library book sale

Saturday, April 10, to Friday, April 16
Gordon White Library (members only)

Thousands of excess books are on sale for a fraction of their retail price. There’s a great range on offer, with everything from bestsellers to books on gardening, craft and cooking and all for $1 each, $5 for a small bag or $10 for large bag or box. Each attendee will need to pre-book tickets via Eventbrite and groups will need to register each person attending, including children. Attendees will need to be library members to allow for ease of contact tracing. Those without internet access can call 4961 9387 to book a ticket. Bargain-hunters are asked to bring their own bags and cash.

2) Manga drawing workshops with David Lovegrove

Monday, April 12, 10am to 11am at Gordon White Library
Monday, April 12, 2pm to 3pm at Dudley Denny City Library

David Lovegrove is a writer/illustrator and one of Australia’s best-known manga artists. His manga workshops for young people have been voted ‘most popular’ during Japan Week in Brisbane. These sessions are via video conference for young adults aged 12 to 18 years. Book here https://bit.ly/39KCF09.

3) At the Flicks: The Call of the Wild

Tuesday, April 13, 2pm to 4pm
Dudley Denny City Library  

Buck is a big-hearted dog whose blissful domestic life gets turned upside down when he is suddenly uprooted from his California home and transplanted to the exotic wilds of the Alaskan Yukon in the 1890s. As the newest rookie on a mail-delivery dog sled team, Buck experiences the adventure of a lifetime as he ultimately finds his true place in the world. This program is for young adults aged 12 to 18 years. Book here https://bit.ly/3rT7XrQ.

4) Plastic bottle art workshop

Thursday, April 15, from 10am to 11.30am
Botanic Gardens meeting room

Drop into the Botanic Gardens meeting room and create a decorative flower or garden ornament. Leave your amazing creations with us to be included in a colourful display at our
Botanic Gardens Open Day on Saturday, May 29. Please bring your own plastic soft drink bottle (1.25L or 2L is best) and we will supply paint, paint brushes and other materials. Parental supervision is required, all ages are welcome. To book, please contact the Botanic Gardens by phone on 4952 7300 or email botanic@mackay.qld.gov.au

5) Anime – Manga Club  

Thursday, April 15, 5.30pm to 7pm
Gordon White Library

Come on out Anime and Manga fans! A place to share your favourite or most despised story ideas, drawings and all things Japanese. This program is for young adults aged 12 to 18 years. Book here https://bit.ly/31SkKjq

6) Bedtime Stories

Thursday, April 15, 5pm to 6pm
Dudley Denny City Library

A fun evening for all children aged up to eight years-old and their families. The session features stories, songs and a craft activity. Don't forget to wear your pyjamas! Book here https://bit.ly/2Q2KG9p

7) Conversations with Art

Friday, April 16, from 1pm to 2.30pm
Artspace Mackay
Conversations with Art is a free and enjoyable discussion led by Artspace staff, looking at images of traditional and contemporary artworks from gallery and museum collections from around the world. Whether you’re an artist, an art and language lover, beginner or expert, we invite you to come along for this casual conversation to talk about the art where we deconstruct the works, consider themes, discuss possible techniques used by the artists and create links with our own personal experiences. Book here http://bit.ly/3qrvM9t.

8) English Conversation Circles

Friday, April 16, from 1pm to 2.30pm
Artspace Mackay

Do you want to practise your English-speaking skills? Whether you’re just starting out, or advanced in your skills, our program will assist in your language development in a relaxed and supportive environment thanks to the Neighbourhood Hub. Bookings are essential for all attendees. Book here https://bit.ly/3dzg7jX.

9) "Sharing the Insect World" with Maya Harrison

Friday, April 16, 10am to noon
Botanic Gardens meeting room

Come along to the Botanic Gardens meeting room and investigate live insects, see photos and learn information with Maya Harrison of ‘Maya’s Nature’, then go on a walk to find where some of these insects might live in the Botanic Gardens. This workshop is suitable for school-aged children. Please bring a hat and water bottle. Children are encouraged to wear comfortable walking shoes. Bookings are essential, and places are limited. To book your spot, phone 4952 7300.

10) Movie Matinees

Astro Kid (G)
Friday, April 16, 2pm to 4pm at Dudley Denny City Library

A space exploration story about a courageous boy who must fend for himself on an alien planet. Book here https://bit.ly/3fWXeuf

Reminders:

50th Anniversary – The Ultimate Eagles Experience
Saturday, April 24, 7.30pm
The MECC

The Ultimate Eagles Experience is a concert performance not to be missed. This tribute show delivers a captivating live concert celebrating the synonymous country/rock sound of the Eagles.
Performing all the classic Eagles hits including ‘Desperado’, ‘Take It Easy’, ‘New Kid In Town’, ‘Take It To The Limits’, ‘Heartache Tonight’ and the legendary ‘Hotel California’, amongst many more with a mix of solo hits from members Don Henley, Joe Walsh and the late Glenn Frey. Book via the MECC website themecc.com.au.

The Wiggles – We’re All Fruit Salad Tour
Thursday, April 29, at 10am, 1pm and 4pm
The MECC Auditorium

The We’re All Fruit Salad Tour, features Wiggly classics and new songs from the group, plus a variety of dance styles and performances that go with different styles of music. Children will see and hear drums, keyboards, banjo, guitars, bagpipes and lots of singing. There’s a range of ticketing options for young and old including VIP tickets featuring the Big Red Car experience, a meet and greet with The Wiggles and a merchandise pack. Alternatively, you can simply purchase a ticket to the show and enjoy the entertainment. Book via the MECC website themecc.com.au.