Ten Reasons Why You Should Check Out the Gladstone Show

THE Gladstone Show kicks off tomorrow, so we've put together a list of ten things on offer not to be missed.

Ten Reasons Why You Should Check Out the Gladstone Show

1. First trucks: The monster trucks are here and ready to cause some mayhem. Gladstone will get to see a brand new monster truck never seen before in Australia. The performance will begin from 6pm Wednesday and consist of car crushing and other tricks.

2. Motor cross: Zac Mckenzie and Jake May will perform their latest tricks including back flips at the free style motor cross event on their motorbikes. The performance will begin after the monster trucks (which start at 6pm) as part of the night performances in the show ring.

3. Wedding cakes: Wedding cakes on display! Some cake entries have been reported to be up to 1m high in this competition. Anyone can enter, as long as they have a killer cake recipe.

4. Syco Sam: Rolling completely on its roof with flashing lights underneath, the Syco Sam bus is one of the all day rides available at the show. It is a kid's favourite Australia-wide.

5. Horticulture: The show will include a horticulture tent holding some of Gladstone's rarest and finest plants on display all day. In previous years organisers have had to re-arrange the tent to make room for all the entries.

6. Bar: Adults can head to the bar throughout the day if they are feeling a bit thirsty after an action packed ride with the kids, or just want to relax and have a drink and watch the performances.

7. Arts and crafts: The arts and crafts tent will be open all day; with award-winning art and needle work and photography on display. Anyone can enter their own exhibits for all of Gladstone to see.

8. Food: Dagwood dogs and hot chips; what better way to celebrate Show day than by indulging in some of the great show foods on offer all over the showgrounds from the moment the gates open to the finish.

9. Show bags: Everybody loves a show bag, and the Gladstone show promises to have hundreds of different show bags, from Spiderman to Dora the Explorer.

10. Fireworks: If you love fireworks, the Gladstone Show is the place for you. To finish off the night there will be a firework show. Stay until 8.30 pm to watch.

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Fishers Spoiled for Choice in Gladstone Region

FOR those who know this region and the different spots to wet a line there is such a vast number of places to go and also species to catch.

From the harbour with the barra and the enormous king salmon out to the reef with those magic reds, trout, sweetlip, and mackerel, through to the inland systems like Awoonga, Callide, Monduran, and Cania Dams, for barra, mangrove jack, saratoga, bass, and in some spots we are seeing some pretty big longtoms being caught in Awoonga and in the Dawson River.

The local fishing pages on Facebook have seen some pretty good catches of black jew, mangrove jack and a snodger of a grunter measuring 69cm, which Thimoteus Newland caught and released this week, on a humble prawn bottom fishing.

I see Steven Strathdee spent some time out at Cania, and decided to walk the banks flicking stick baits around the snags and had a ball with the perch and bass.

The same thing applies with walking the banks of the Boyne - in "stealth mode" I call it - and targeting those snags which will hold barra, and jack.

In fact, you really don't need too much water for neither species, as the more shallow you get (Kermit the frog "knee deep") the more the little surface poppers, and walk the dog lures, come into play.

These predators will tend to sit, and wait in the lee of a rock, or gravel bank, as the water or tide comes in over the top, bringing with it some dinner, and it's these places you need to target.

To add another dimension, try fishing very light, say down to a 4-6 lb line, with an 8-10 lb leader, and only then the challenge commences.

This weekend is new moon Friday, with huge tides, nice balmy northerlies, and reasonably flat seas.

Tomorrow morning it looks as though the breeze could be down to 10 knots or a little less, from about sun up till around 2-3pm at the time of writing this.

It will swing around to the east after lunch, providing a very nice ride home if you venture out wide.

Sunday looks as though it'll be 10-15 easterlies all day, but that won't bother some.

The low tide around 4ish Saturday arvo is a big one though, and the likes of the Boyne Entrance will be practically unusable from 1 or 2 pm, and those using this access need to plan ahead.

For those chasing a feed of crabs, then this weekend should be awesome with some big chocolate bucks around at the moment, and coupled with the big tides you should be able to access some of those creeks, and drains which can't normally get to.

For those new to the region and keen to get into some crabbing, learning how this whole line of fishing works can be quite tricky and a good start to learn about the "art" of crabbing is to pick up a DVD of Johnny Mitchell's called the Mud Crab, at most tackle shops or via his website.

This year's Boyne Tannum HookUp being the 20th year, has now been open for entries for a little while and there is a steady flow of those booking their spot in this incredible event.

Having it back on the original weekend, being Queen's Birthday long weekend in June (6,7,8 ) is very cool.

And the committee, many of whom have been volunteering there time for many years now to bring you this extravaganza, are planning to blow you away beginning with that major prize boat from Curtis Coast Marine, Haines Signature, Suzuki, and Garmin.

You can't win this, nor any of the other nine boats if you aren't entered.

Entry is easy by simply going on line to www.boynetannumhookup.com.au and following the instructions.

Remember once it's full, it's full, but numbers are only restricted with senior entrants to 3000, whereas with the kids they are open to as many as they can get.

Finally share a thought for those at VMR Gladstone who diligently man the radios and the rescue boats, to help us out when things don't go the way we plan.

They are in constant need for volunteers on the radios. If you aren't a member then my best advice is to be one.

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We're Getting Hooked on Big Catches | Gladstone, QLD

WOW! Doesn't a nice weekend on the water make a difference to one's well-being?

The fish were biting, the wind had dropped out and the sea flattened out somewhat, allowing most to get out on the water.

Last week saw a few getting into the black jew. Like Ray Noe, who landed this beauty up near Rundle.

Well done, along with Terrin Sharpe and Jon Pike, who just love showing off their big jewies as well.

The whole region fished very well, with plenty of barra caught in Raglan Creek, the Calliope and right across the whole system.

How about Greg Elliot's barra on the front page of The Observer this week?

What an awesome fish. And there were others - like Andrew Barnes, who caught and released a 1.3m barra, Brent Barnes-Mayman landed a 1.3m cobia, and Mark Bycroft landed a nice 45cm Jack using a vibe lure.

There were so many good catches on the weekend.

Yours truly had the pleasure of being invited out with Johnny Mitchell and although a 3am rise is just not right, I got out on the water at 4am (yawn), fishing the 8-15 mile range outside the entrance to the channel, targeting nannygai, reds, trout and whatever else chewed on the line.

Learning more about the sounder, bait collection and even my method of striking a fish was all part of the learning curve with this chap, and like a good golfing stroke, all these little coaching tips certainly help increase your chances of nailing that fish.

We came home with 17 keepers and ended up with about 8kg of fillets.

Mark Patton was able to slip out on Monday morning before the wind popped up and among his binful was a 5kg grassie sweetlip. Solid fish Mark, well done.

This weekend, Greg Realf and I, along with Glenn Churchill from the GAPDL, are manning the Gladstone and Banana Region's stand at the Brisbane Tinny and Tackle Show in Manly.

The goal is to answer any questions people have about the region and in the past the four of us (Matty Branthwaite helps as well) have been kept pretty busy.

There are a lot of perceptions about our region down south, but as those who slip out on the water can contest, we have it very good, with a variety of places to go and myriad species to target.

The HookUp major prize is a fully kitted out Haines Signature 602F.

The 20th Boyne Tannum HookUp is rapidly approaching, and Darren Brown, from Curtis Coast Marine, posted a photo of the major prize on his Facebook page - a Haines Signature 602F Hardtop fitted out with Garmin electronics and a mighty 150hp Suzuki four-stroke.

Visit www.boynetannumhookup.com.au to enter.

This weekend looks as though it'll be a tad ordinary out front, with 15 knots expected tomorrow afternoon, plus maybe a shower.

Big tides, though, and for the best results the last couple of hours leading up to and down to the high and low tides seem to produce the best results.

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New Gladstone Shopping Centre Open for Business

IN BUSINESS: Developer Geoff Bonney, long-time resident Betty Mergard, and Foodworks owners Peter Kinder and Michelle Irvine cut the ribbon.

BETTY Mergard officially opened the new Agnes Water Central shopping centre on Saturday.

Twelve hundred square metres has been developed to create a much-needed full line supermarket for the town.

And while grocery shopping enters a new era in Agnes Water, it's the interactive floor that has everyone celebrating.

Developer Geoff Bonney said the structure would be highly beneficial to the community.

"We had a basic design but we sat down with the architect and tailored it to what the locals need," he said.

"There was only a convenience store previously but this new development has really opened up opportunities.

"The bigger centre means it will increase employment rates too."

The facilities the centre features are state-of-the-art, with only four like it in Australia.

A revolutionary refrigeration and air conditioning unit behind the scenes and 5m interactive floor is what has locals so excited.

Iconic local Betty Mergard said she'd seen nothing like it in her 75 years.

"It's got the wow factor," she said. "The moving flooring and post office layout is just amazing."

The Mergard family's long term tourist industry input made her the perfect candidate to cut the official ribbon.

"I was really representing the community and their future enjoyment of the facility," she said.

Betty's daughter Desley O'Grady said it was fantastic for the area, "especially for holiday makers who will have more of a range for shopping".

"We've been coming here for over 70 years, and it's a big moment for us," she said.

Backpacker Tamara Volk said the food looked pretty good.

"It's not too expensive so it's great for us," she said. "The interactive floor will be good for the kids."

While Mark Mergard said it would "help the growth of the area".

Joel O'Grady said it was nice and neat and not cluttered.

"The interactive floor is fantastic."

Currently Foodworks and the post office are operational.

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Unwind and Enjoy Gladstone

With balmy temperatures and a subtropical climate, Gladstone in central Queensland offers a wonderful array of exotic islands, fun outdoor activities, an abundance of wildlife and some unique locations to explore. 

Also located nearby are untouched national parks, rugged headlands offering spectacular lookouts, man-made lakes and botanical gardens.

Located next door to Metro Hotel and Apartments is the newly renovated Gladstone Entertainment Centre. 

Up and coming shows include Sydney Comedy Festival, Circus OZ, Celtic Legends Tour, The Ten Sopranos in Concert, Taikoz – Crimson Sky, Anh Do stand-up comedian and Cinderella performed by the Queensland Ballet.

Unwind and Enjoy Gladstone

Special show packages are available with prices ranging from $140 (Friday to Sunday) and $185 (Monday to Thursday) which includes accommodation for two, complimentary WiFi and car parking and a $15 restaurant voucher (one per room).  

Tickets to shows are not included but can be booked online or from the Gladstone Entertainment Centre http://www.gladecc.com.au/booking-info/.

Whether you chose to relax or get involved with activities, Metro Hotel and Apartments Gladstone offers quality accommodation right in the heart of the CBD and an eight minute drive from the airport.  

Property facilities include an outdoor swimming pool, BBQ and a licensed restaurant on site.

For your convenience, Rocksalt Restaurant & Bar is located off the hotel’s reception area and this restaurant has been recently awarded with a Westpac Business Excellence Award for the Wide Bay region.  

An independently managed restaurant and bar, the atmosphere is warm and friendly and the team creates fresh and delicious contemporary style Australian cuisine that will satisfy all appetites.  The restaurant is open continuously all day from breakfast till late.

Metro Hotel and Apartments Gladstone has a one bedroom family apartment which can cater for up to five guests and the one bedroom apartments cater up to a maximum of four guests.  

Room facilities include a separate lounge, fully equipped kitchen, private balcony, washing machine and dryer and secure on-site parking.

See the full Press Release at Metro Hotels News

What's On in Gladstone This Weekend

LOOKING for something to do in the Gladstone region this weekend? Here's a rundown of some of the events and activities available.

FRIDAY

Music under the stars

APLNG and the Queensland Symphony Orchestra will present Music Under the Stars, a free community event featuring outdoor entertainment by the orchestra.

Picnic under the stars and enjoy favourites loved by all ages, including music from Tchaikovsky's The Nutcracker, Vivaldi's The Four Seasons, Strauss' Blue Danube Waltz and Biset's Carmen Suites.

No alcohol, glass, pets or umbrellas are permitted. The event gets underway at 7pm.

Rock out to local talent

GLADSTONE heavy metal band Red In Tooth will rock out at the Gladstone Tennis Club on Friday night.

Starting from 6.30pm, bands such as Sixth League, Woebegone, Best Friends and acoustic act Direst Desire will also perform.

Bring your friends along to this fun event and rock out to some of the city's best bands.

Tickets are $10 at the door. All ages are welcome. The venue is licensed.

Roller disco fun

GLADSTONE PCYC Roller Derby will host a Masquerade Madness roller disco from 6.30-9.30pm.

The monthly all-ages event is popular with kids and adults, and there are skates to fit all sizes.

Food and drinks will be available, as well as games, music and fun provided by masked derby girls and guys.

Cost is $10 at the door, which includes skate hire. Children must be supervised.

All you  need to know about Instagram

LEARN about Instagram 101 with a free workshop being held at the Tondoon Botanic Gardens.

Tourism and Events Queensland in partnership with GAPDL is holding the workshop for the Gladstone region and Banana Shire from 2-4pm.

The workshop will take participants through the benefits of using Instagram for business and how to get started.

Stick around for a sunset Instameet at 4.30pm at Tondoon Botanical Gardens to put your Instagram skills into practice.

Register online here.

Movie session for parents and kids

MUMS, dads and bubs are invited to come along to the Gladstone cinemas to attend a child-friendly event at 9.30am.

Ticket are $8 or $20 for Gold room. The lights will be left on and dimmed and the sound is lowered  Visit the website for more information. 

Fun night for beauties and geeks

LIFESTYLE Church will be hosting their next Activ8 event for tweens on Friday.

Held at the Lifestyle Centre, 83 Sun Valley Road, Kin Kora from 7pm-9pm with doors opening at 6.45pm, the event will be themed Beauty & the Geeks, and includes action-packed games for students ages 8-11.

Entry costs $3 at the door. See Facebook for more details.

SATURDAY

Calliope Catwalk Awards presentation

THE Calliope Catwalk Awards gala awards presentation will be held at 14 Stirrat St, Calliope from noon.

The awards aim to provide amateur designers with the opportunity to explore their creativity, and provide a stepping stone into the fashion industry.

Their talent will be celebrated at the presentation afternoon, where attendees can decorate their own Mad Hatters Tea Party table, enjoy a licensed bar, two course meal, nibbles, entertainment, raffles, fashion and the presentation of award winners.

Categories include primary and secondary school students, cutting edge, race wear, recycled fashion, wearable art, bridal and evening, leisure, children's wear and accessories.

Tickets cost $55 and are available from Fantasy Rags, Gladstone, and Limestone Clothing, Calliope.

Phone 4972 3676 for more details or click here.

Seniors Week activities

SENIORS Week gets underway in the Gladstone region, with plenty of activities to be enjoyed.

Saturday's activities include a men's shed open day in Gladstone; belly dancing in Agnes Water; bushwalking at Boyne Island, Road to Nhill movie screening at Calliope; a heritage walk in Gladstone; Clay Creations at Agnes Water; Mind, Body and Soul at Miriam Vale; Indian Cooking and Culture in Gladstone; and Spanish Flamenco Dancing in Gladstone.

Phone 4976 6306 or 1300 733 343 for more details, or visit the Gladstone council website.

Learn to cook the paleo way

A NOURISHING sustenance cooking class incorporating GAPS and paleo principles will be held on Saturday at 1.30pm at Integrative Wellbeing Solutions, 94 Glenlyon St, Gladstone.

Those attending should take containers for take-home samples. Cost $20. Bookings essential on 0400 739 489.

20th annual Golding Showcase

GLADSTONE Regional Art Gallery and Museum is hosting the Golding Showcase, a Port Curtis Callide Valley youth art exhibition.

Works in all media by local high school students aged 15-18 will be on display for a month.

The gallery at the corner of Goondoon and Bramston Sts is open from 10am to 5pm.

Biloela Markets in the Park

HELD on the third Saturday of each month, Biloela Markets in the Park offer a wide variety of stalls for everyone to enjoy.

People can enjoy the delicious fresh produce, try their green thumb with huge variety of plants, and find that special piece of jewellery, clothing, accessories and hand crafted goodies.

The markets run from 8am to 2pm at Barimis Park, Callide St, Biloela.

Spend a morning with acoustic tunes

JHAM Bar Gladstone will host Acoustic JHAMS, a morning of music by local artists each Saturday from 9am-noon.

Sit and have a coffee and watch the world go by while enjoying music by Animal Throwdown, White Room and Rob (Country) Hopkins at JHAM Bar, 117 Toolooa St, Gladstone.

Disney princess movie festival

THE Disney princess movie festival continues at Gladstone Cinemas this weekend.

Princess fans can join Aurora, Pocahontas, Ariel, Snow White and Belle as they come to the big screen this month.

This weekend The Little Mermaid will screen on Saturday and Sunday.

Click here for more details. 

Dress up for Rotary high tea

FROCK up for an afternoon of scrumptious treats, fun and entertainment at the annual Biloela Rotary High Tea.

As well as a best dressed competition, the annual arts and crafts competition will be held, with categories including decorated cupcakes, aprons and tea cosies. 

Tickets are available from the Biloela Florist, and tables of 10 are available.

The event will be held at the Biloela Civic Centre, 96 Rainbow St, Biloela. Phone 4992 2720 for more details.

Get fit with Parkrun

STOCKLAND Gladstone and Parkrun Australia faciliate a unique, community run program that provides free weekly timed 5km running events for people of all ages and abilities every Saturday morning from 7am - 8am at Lions Park.

Register online here before your first run.

Miriam Vale Lions Markets in the Park

THE Miriam Vale Lions Club hosts the Miriam Vale Markets on the third Saturday of each month at Blomfield St, Miriam Vale.

Stroll through the delightful cool and shady park to view a variety of stalls, or try a sizzling fillet steak, sausage or bacon burger.

The markets run from 7am to noon.

SUNDAY

Botanic to Bridge fun run

THE 2014 Botanic to Bridge fun run is on again, starting in the Tondoon Botanic Gardens and finishing at the Gladstone marina.

The 8km race starts at 8am, with the 3km race starting at 9.40am.

Entry is $25 adults, $15 concession, $50 family, $20 group and $10 student.

More details here.

Sunday Coffee Cruise

TAKE a cruise around the Gladstone harbour and surrounding island every Sunday and Wednesday on a a Curtis Ferry Services Coffee Cruise.

Enjoy a two-hour cruise with morning tea and commentary on the Gladstone region, while keeping an eye out for turtles, dolphins and dugongs.

Cruises are held 11am-1pm. Bookings are essential and can be made through the Gladstone Visitor Information Centre.

Passengers must collect their ticket from the Information Centre at 72 Bryan Jordan Drive) before departure, and ensure they arrive at Curtis Ferry Services Terminal by 10.45am.

If the Information Centre is closed, tickets and payments can be made from the departure point.

The Sunday Coffee Cruise will run until September 28.

Tickets cost $24 adults, $22 concession and $16 children aged 7-16. Phone 4972 9000 for more details.

Seniors Week continues

SENIORS Week activities continue in the Gladstone region on Sunday.

Activities include canoeing at Boyne Valley; belly dancing in Gladstone; Spanish cooking in Gladstone; and Young at Art at Agnes Water and Boyne Island. 

Phone 4976 6306 or 1300 733 343 for more details, or visit the Gladstone council website.

Rotary Kmart Markets

THE Rotary Club of Gladstone Midday Markets are held on the third Saturday of each month in the Kmart car park on Phillip St, Gladstone.

There is a wide range of goods on offer including food, coffee, cakes, jewellery, hand-made soaps, plants, toys, clothes and bric-a-brac.

There also is entertainment from local artists. The markets run from 6am to 1.30pm.

Sunday session at Yachties

GLADSTONE Yacht Club will have a Sunday session in Yachties Beer Garden with live music from 2pm.

There will be great drink specials and a great atmosphere to wind-down your weekend.

The Sunday session runs until 6pm.

PUBS AND CLUBS

FRIDAY:

• Yaralla Sports Club, bingo, 10am and 1pm
• Queens Hotel, dance until late with Karina and Mak
• Gladstone Bowls, bingo, 10am; Wolves Soccer Club bingo, 7.30pm
• Club Hotel, 888 PL Poker registration, 6.30pm for 7.30pm start
• Diggers Arms Hotel, karaoke
• Blackwater Mineworkers Club, TJ Hollis from 8pm
• Rocky Glen Hotel, Velocity from 8pm
• Tannum Sands Hotel, DJ Twisted from 8.15pm
• Agnes Water Tavern, free jukebox from 8pm
• Gladstone Tennis Club, Red In Tooth + local bands from 6.30pm
• Central Lane Hotel, Ralphy from 9pm

SATURDAY:

• Yaralla Sports Club, free poker, 7pm
• Queens Hotel, dance until late with Karina and Mak
• Grand Hotel, 888 PL Poker, registration from 1pm for 2pm start
• Tannum Sands Hotel, live music, 8.15pm
• Rocky Glen Hotel, Mad Hat from 8pm
• Young Aussie Hotel, JD's Karaoke from 8pm
• Tannum Sands Hotel, Wood and Steel from 8.15pm
• Gladstone Reef Hotel, Chris Bax from 9pm
• Agnes Water Tavern, Taylored Noize from 8pm
• Central Lane Hotel, Ralphy from 9pm

SUNDAY:

• Young Aus Hotel, raffles, 11.30am
• Queens Hotel, 888 PL Poker, registration 1pm for 2pm start
• Yaralla, bingo, 1pm
• Railway Hotel, Sunday session, 2pm
• Gladstone Bowls, Wolves Soccer Club bingo, 7.30pm
• Tannum Sands Hotel, Larren Bean from 1pm
• Rocky Glen Hotel, Fudge from 3pm
• Central Lane Hotel, Nathan Bedford from 1.30pm

MOVIES

FRIDAY:

• Mrs Brown's Boys - Da Movie: 10.15am, 12.15pm, 6.30pm
• Hercules: 11.45am (GR), 12.15pm, 2.20pm, 9.15pm
• And So It Goes: 9.45am (GR), 10.15am, 2.50pm, 7.10pm
• Lucy: 11.20am, 2.10pm, 4.20pm (GR), 7.20pm, 9.15pm
• Guardians Of The Galaxy: 9.30am, 11.55am, 2.15pm, 4.05pm, 6.15pm (GR), 6.35pm, 9.05pm
• Deliver Us From Evil: 12.30pm, 4.50pm, 9.10pm
• These Final Hours: 2.30pm, 4.45pm, 9.15pm
• Postman Pat - The Movie: 9.30am, 3.40pm, 3.45pm, 5.30pm
• Expendables 3: 9.30am, Noon, 1.50pm (GR), 4.15pm, 6.45pm, 8.30pm, 8.45pm (GR)
• The Hundred Foot Journey: 10.05am, 1.15pm, 4.25pm, 6.50pm

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Tondoon Botanical Gardens | Gladstone, QLD

Tondoon Botanic Garden showcases an outstanding collection of tropical, sub tropical and dry rainforests from Port Curtis region and Far North Queensland.

Officially opened in 1988, the tranquil balance of the Gardens is made up of superbly cultivated gardens overlooking Lake Tondoon and nestled into the undulating landscape of Mount Biondello.

For local residents and for the many interstate and international visitors, Tondoon Botanic Garden is a place of inspiration, relaxation, and recreation. Visited by over 100,000 people each year, it is a popular place for picnics, pleasant walks, cultural and ceremonial events.

Although the Cafe is closed we have free electric BBQ’s, tables and chairs as well as picnic areas for you to come and enjoy.  These can be found in the front section of the Gardens.

You may like to view the image gallery that highlights the many wonders of the Botanic Garden or download one of our many brochures.

Location – Tondoon Gardens

Tondoon Botanic Gardens is located on Glenlyon Road in Gladstone, approximately 530 km north of Brisbane and 5.4km from the Central Business District of Gladstone.

Map – Tondoon Gardens

Tondoon Gardens Gladstone PDF Map

Find Nearby Gladstone Hotel Accommodation at:

Metro Hotel and Apartments Gladstone

Apartments G60  Gladstone

View official Website

2014 Brisbane to Gladstone Multihull Notice of Race

The Notice of Race for the 50th Brisbane to Gladstone Multihull Race to be held over Easter 2014 has just be released. Celebrating its 50th year the event incorperates the Race Fleet, Follow the Fleet Multihull Cruisers and a Multihull Cruise Rally it is going to be spectacular for all involved. This is a very special year for our club and for the promotion of multihulls so come along and join in the fun.

The notice of race can be found via this link.

  

Source: http://www.multihulls.net.au/2014-brisbane-to-gladstone-multihull-notice-of-race/

SUNfest Encourages Youngsters to Try New Activities

SUNFEST is getting kids off the couch and encouraging them to be active with lots of sports available to try.

Last week kids at SUNfest got a chance to try out different sports including squash, abseiling, indoor rock climbing and skateboarding.

Week two of SUNfest is shaping up to be very active.

On Monday youths around the region tried their hands at water sports including: surfing, stand-up paddle boarding and kayaking in Seventeen Seventy.

Head to the hockey grounds for Hook in2 hockey, a program teaching kids the basic skills of hockey to get them involved in Gladstone's hockey scene.

If hockey isn't for you then head next door to the Gladstone tennis/squash complex to give tennis a go.

Or head to the Awoonga headwaters adventure day to learn more about the environment while swimming, walking and canoeing.

WHAT'S ON

TODAY

• PCYC master chef day.
• Summer Reading Club Craft Gladstone City Library. Time: 9.30am.
• SUNfest photography workshop at Canoe Point. Time: 9am-noon. Cost: $15.
• SUNfest hot shoes/flash mob dancin' in the street at St Stephens Lutheran College, Time: today and tomorrow 9am-3pm. Cost: $30.
• SUNfest Lil' Kids klay kreetures clay workshop at Gladstone Regional Art Gallery and Museum. Time: 10am-noon. Cost: $10.
• SUNfest Lil' Kids wirework wildlife at Tondoon Botanic Gardens and Calliope Community Centre. Time: 10.30am-12.30pm (Gladstone), 2-4pm (Calliope).

TOMORROW

• PCYC Rockhampton Zoo excursion. Cost: $12 addition to standard day fee.
• Scrapbook Fantasies, 2pm cardmaking and 3.30pm scrapbooking.
• SUNfest Hook in2 Hockey, at Rigby Park. Time: 9am-noon. Cost: $6 (booked ticket).
• SUNfest recycled lanterns at PCYC. Time: tomorrow and Thursday 10am-3pm. Cost: $20 for both days.
• SUNfest Awoonga headwaters adventure day. Meet up at Gladstone Regional Art Gallery and Museum. Time: 8am-5pm. Cost: $35 (booked ticket).
• Summer Reading Club Craft, Calliope and Agnes Water libraries 9.30am.

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Jam-packed Week of Holiday Fun as SUNfest Gets Underway

SUNfest got started yesterday with a variety of activities for youngsters around the region.

Children at Seventeen Seventy battled it out with Lazer Skirmish and Gladstone kids showed their creative side at the SUNfest Lil' Kids Creative Tangle Doodle Art workshop, where they learned how to draw things using their hands as a pattern.

The Young Dancers Company began their five-day dance workshop, allowing aspiring dancers to try hip-hop, jazz, ballet, tap and contemporary dance styles.

On Tuesday the PCYC is venturing to the Botanic Gardens for an Amazing Race event and Bunnings is holding a mask-making workshop.

The Gladstone Regional Libraries' Summer Reading Club craft sessions start on Tuesday. Children can make disguises, finger-print art and crack the mystery parcels.

The Summer Reading Club is also a competition; to win a prize kids need to have read 10 or more books and whoever reads the most will win a bike.

SUNfest heats up later this week with more Laser Skirmish, claymation music videos, photography, drama and jewellery-making workshops.

SUNFEST PROGRAM

TUESDAY

Laser Skirmish at Canoe Point. Time: 12.30-3.30pm and 4-6.30pm.

War-Gaming and Introduction to Tabletop Gaming at Calliope Community Centre. Time: 1-4pm.

Paintball Gladstone Regional Art Gallery and Museum. Time: 8.30am-2.30pm.

Lil' Kids Papier Mache Fish workshop at Mt Larcom Room and Boyne Tannum.

WEDNESDAY

Laser Skirmish at Tondoon Botanic Gardens. Time: 12.30-3.30pm and 4-6.30pm.

Photography workshop at Tondoon Botanic Gardens. Time: 9amnoon.

Claymation Music Videos at Gladstone Regional Art Gallery and Museum. Time: January 8-9, 10am-3pm.

Lil' Kids Funky Paper Bead Jewellery workshop at PCYC. Time: 9am-noon.

Lil' Kids So You Think You Can Act at Boyne Tannum Community Centre. Time: January 8-9, 9am-2pm.

THURSDAY

War-Gaming and Introduction to Tabletop Gaming at Boyne Tannum Community Centre and Gladstone City Library. Time: 1-4pm.

Squash at Gladstone Tennis/Squash Complex. Time: 3-5pm.

Melted Madness crayon art workshop at Boyne Tannum Community Centre. Time: 13pm.

Overnight Escape to Awoonga Dam and Harmony Farm Activity excursion. Time: 8am.

Lil' Kids Paper Mache Fish Workshop at Gladstone Regional Art Gallery. Time: 9.30am-12.30pm.

Lil' Kids Indoor Rock Climbing, Abseiling and Sportwall at Tannum Fitness Centre. Time: 9am-1pm.

FRIDAY

Skateboard Art workshop at Police Citizens Youth Club Time: 1-4pm

Mini Me Puppets Bunkaru style puppet workshop at Gladstone Regional Art Gallery & Museum Time: 10am-noon

Party On at the Pool/Zorb Balls at the Gladstone Aquatic Centre Time: 4-8pm

Lil' Kids Funky Paper Bead Jewellery Workshop for 10-11 year olds at Boyne Tannum Community Centre Time: 9am-noon

Lil' Kids Skateboard Art Workshop for 10-11 year olds at Police Citizen Youth Club Time: 9am-noon

Lil' Kids The Amazing Art Race for 10-11 year olds at Canoe Point Time: 1.30-3.30pm


Lil' Kids Recycled Wearable Art for 10-11 year olds at Tondoon Botanic Gardens Time: 9-11am

Gladstone Girl Plays in Australia's Lingerie Football League

TACKLING people dressed in lingerie may sound like fun, but for diesel fitter Kody House it's serious business.    

The 23-year-old Gladstone woman and former St Ursula's College student has gone on to do great things in lingerie football, making a name for herself in the first-ever Australian Legends Football League (LFL) last year.  

This blonde beauty is a passionate athlete who said she had always enjoyed sport since she was young.  
"(I've played) (basketball, touch, netball, soccer, athletics), and started going to the gym in high school," Kody said.

"However, the past few years is when I have been really dedicated to eating healthy and training as I moved from my home town to Brisbane to play soccer in the Brisbane Premier League and also play AFL in the Brisbane Women's League."  

Kody said she was contacted by a friend from Yeppoon to try out for the sport and made the Queensland team.  

No longer playing soccer or AFL and dedicating her time solely to LFL, Kody said she was happy to be acknowledged for her skills.  

"I've played for other sports and you don't get that much recognition for your abilities," she said.   
"Being on TV was so exciting…and it's been getting a good response here so far, we had 6000 people turn up to one of the games in Melbourne recently."  

One of the captains playing tight end and linebacker positions in the game, which is based on America's grid iron sport, Kody said she hoped to go further in the sport and play overseas.  
"I eventually want to play in America and Canada or even in Europe when the new league starts in upcoming years," she said.   

"It's so full-on, I put in a lot of effort every day, aside from our training sessions I do my own, so I don't really get that much spare time."  

Kody said wearing lingerie while playing didn't faze her, and it was no different from other sports.  
"I did a bit of body building and you wear a similar outfit for that.   


"It (LFL) has been re-branded now and we are all people who have played sport before, we're normal athletes who want to be recognised for our skills and hard work," she said.  

WINTER MAGIC Ice Skating & Tobogganing

Get your skates on Gladstone it’s time for a white Christmas.

From Friday 20 December 2013 right through to Sunday 26 January 2014 the GECC Marquee transforms into a winter wonderland. Ice skating and tobogganing on real ice in the middle of a Gladstone summer. What else could we want for Christmas?

This is the coolest fun for all ages and very affordable. Daily sessions at 10am, 12 noon, 2pm, 4pm and 7.30pm. Evening Sessions on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 7.30pm to 9.30pm.

Bring gloves (‘cos ice is cold), socks for safety and comfort plus helmets for the little ones are optional. Bookings aren’t necessary but if you are coming in from out of town and want to be sure of a skate send a text to 0421788605 with the number of skaters, session time and your name.

Social Club looking for a novel Xmas venue? Hire the rink for your social club night – available on Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday nights by phoning 0421788605.

Ticket Prices:

• Over 14 – $18
• Children 6 to 14 – $16
• Children 3 to 5 – $10
• Family – $60.00*
• Pensioners & Health Card Adult $15 Child $12
•  Toboggan – 6 rides for $5.00
•  Cool Deal – Parent & Child (3 to 5 years) $22
• Show Times : 20 December 2013

* Family Ticket: 1 parent and 3 children or 2 parents and 2 children. Additional family member $13 – child only.

Tickets can only be purhased at the GECC Marquee from Friday 20 December 2013. Not available online or from the GECC Box Office.

Access to the GECC Marquee from the Car Park via Oaka Lane behind the Gladstone Entertainment Convention Centre.

Book Online at: http://www.gladecc.com.au/whats-on/winter-magic/

JOURNEY The Official Opening Dinner - Gladstone Entertainment Convention Centre

Thirty-two years ago, the Gladstone City Theatre was officially opened. Since that time, Gladstone has been on a spectacular journey to become the modern city that it is today.

Join with us to commemorate the Official Opening of our new Gladstone Entertainment Convention Centre and celebrate its journey from humble city theatre to the international-standard facility that it is today.

Be inspired by the courageous journey of Li Cunxin; from an impoverished village in China to become Mao’s Last Dancer and now Artistic Director of the Queensland Ballet.

Be entertained by the exquisite talent of Wendy Matthews, a multi-ARIA Award winner and one of Australia’s leading female singers. Let Wendy share her journey with you from her birthplace in Canada through the United States and now her home in Australia.

TIME: Wednesday, January 22, 2014 – 6.30pm for 7pm start

TICKETS:  *Tickets on sale Tuesday, December 17 from 9am

Per person: $150
Table of 10: $1500

Find Out More and Look to Book - View Source

Adrenaline Packed Holiday on Offer for SUNfest Participants

Cameron Smith, 13, Corey Stenzel, 12, Nathan Davis, 15 and Tallis Threadingham, 12.

AN ADRENALINE packed holiday adventure awaits those participating in SUNfest 2014.

The popular holiday program for youth aged 10 to 17, which is sponsored by Gladstone Regional Council,will be back with a bang in January, offering more than 50 activities to choose from.

There is plenty of action on offer with pistol shooting at Calliope and go-karting in Rockhampton, as well as the opportunity to play laser skirmish or paintball (15-17 years only).

Council's community services portfolio spokesperson councillor Maxine Brushe said the action wasn't only land based with the local waters of Agnes Water and Seventeen Seventy offering plenty of fun.

"Youth can learn the basics of surfing with local surfing legend Grom, find out what all the fuss is about when it comes to stand-up paddle surfing, or enjoy a spot of kayaking," Cr Brushe said.

"Or for the ultimate adventure, there's the Overnight Escape to Awoonga Dam and Harmony Farm.

"Participants will pitch a tent and camp under the stars at Ubobo as part of this two-day adventure from January 9-10 which also includes canoeing and exploring plus horse riding, games and fun on the flying fox."

SUNfest 2014 runs from January 6-17 and once again includes activities for children aged 10-11 years in a program called Lil' Kids.

Tickets will be available for purchase from the the ticketing website www.gladecc.com.au, by phoning the Gladstone Entertainment Convention Centre on 4972 2822 or in person at the Gladstone Entertainment Convention Centre Box Office, the Boyne Tannum Community Centre, Miriam Vale Council Office, Calliope Council Office and Mt Larcom and Agnes Water Rural Transaction Centres.

Proof of a participant's age and completion of an indemnity form are part of SUNfest entry requirements.

Find Out More

SUNfest Festival - Gladstone 2014

It’s time for some summer holiday fun with the 2014 SUNfest program from the 6th to 17th of January!

There’s plenty for the Lil Kids (10-11yrs) and Youth (12-17yrs) to participate in whilst making new friends and it’s all coordinated by Gladstone Festivals and Events on behalf of Gladstone Regional Council.

For the Youth we’ve got laser skirmish, clay target shooting, skateboard art, mime, clowning and commedia del arte, drama, glee and so much more!

Then there’s lantern making, clay sculpting, drama, paper mache, indoor rock climbing, kite making and even cooking Good Quick Tukka for the Lil Kids!

PLUS you’ll receive a FREE invitation to watch the SUNfest Showcase on the 17th of January; an evening to celebrate the new skills, routines and activities the youth of the region have participated in!

Expressions of Interest

Gladstone Festivals and Events is currently seeking expressions of interest from tutors to conduct activities for youth in January 2014 during SUNfest. For information download the Expressions of Interest prospectus here: Expression of Interest SUNfest 2014

2014 Sunfest Booklet

Please click here for the 2014 Sunfest Booklet Online Version

Please click here for the 2014 Sunfest Booklet PDF Download Version

Hello Kitty Flanagan - Live in Gladstone

Kitty returns with her highly anticipated new show and this time she answers all the difficult questions: What’s wrong with teenagers? Why are babies so angry? What snackfoods should be avoided when dating? Should cabaret be outlawed? 

When did rappers start hating on ladies? Is it okay to take hot beverages into the dunny can? Is dunny can an acceptable term for toilet? What makes ham so delicious? Which religion is best for me? And of course, are all women who own cats mental?

“If you’ve seen Flanagan on The 7pm Project and Good News Week you’ll have an idea of what to expect but she’s even better – and faster – live.” The Independent Weekly

*15years+ show

TIME: 8pm

TICKETS:

Adults: $44.90

Friends of the Theatre: $39.90
Pensioner/Senior Card Holder: $39.90
Students (17 yrs and under): $39.90
Tertiary Students:$39.90
Groups (10+): $39.90 ea

Bolshoi Ballet's Rare Performances Come to Queensland

THE Bolshoi Ballet needs little introduction. One of Russia's premiere professional ballet companies based in the country's oldest and most famous theatre, Bolshoi is known for its size and might.

Home to more than 200 dancers, the company is performing a season exclusive to QPAC.

The company returns to Australia for the first time in nearly two decades and will be performing two rare ballets for Queensland audiences.

Firstly, Le Corsaire is a shining example of the Imperial Russian style of the 19th century combining classical dancing with lavish sets and costumes.

Based on Yuri Burlaka and Alexei Ratmanksy's 2007 adaptation, Le Corsaire is one of the most expensive productions ever mounted by the company and has never been performed in Australia.

The Bright Stream is a 20th-century masterpiece which has been revived after it was banned by Soviet Union authorities because of its setting on a collective farm.

Renowned for its score composed by Dmitri Shostakovich, The Bright Stream features ethnic dances including the famously physical Cossack style.

Both shows will be performed with the Queensland Symphony Orchestra and conducted by Pavel Sorokin.

But if you can't make it to Brisbane then don't fear.

There will be a regional simulcast of the Bolshoi's June 4 performance of Le Corsaire at theatres in Ayr, Bundaberg, Cairns, Gladstone, Mackay, Hervey Bay, Rockhampton and Toowoomba.

Le Corsaire plays QPAC's Lyric Theatre from May 30 to June 5 and The Bright Stream plays the Lyric Theatre from June 7 to 9.

For more information on any of these performances, or to buy tickets, go to www.qpac.com.au