Everything you need to know about the 2026 Airlie Beach Festival of Music

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The sun will soon rise on the 14^th Airlie Beach Festival of Music, and taking his own advice to follow it is none other than legendary singer-songwriter, Xavier Rudd.  

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Headlining the iconic waterfront main stage on Friday, November 6, Rudd is expected to treat the crowd to a mix of new music and classics like Spirit Bird, Storm Boy, and of course Follow the Sun.  

“Airlie is a beautiful spot and I’m looking forward to getting back up that way,” he said, adding that the Whitsunday Islands and Great Barrier Reef was a place where he could happily hang out with his boat.  

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Joining Rudd on the three-day lineup at Queensland’s premier ‘party in paradise’ are some of the nation’s most celebrated acts, including Hunters and Collectors frontman, Mark Seymour, Aussie icons Mental As Anything, The Whitlams, The Radiators, chart-topper Conrad Sewell, Country artist Adam Harvey, and internationally renowned blues guitarist, Nathan Cavaleri.  

With 60 acts across 16 venues – from the big-top tent at the Whitsunday Sailing Club to the main strip of Airlie Beach and beyond – here’s what you need to know about the 2026 event.

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Pay for three days, party for five

In addition to the weekend of November 6-8, the festival includes a Beach Jam and Welcome Party on Thursday, November 5, and an After Party at Northerlies Beach Bar & Grill on Monday, November 9.  

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Titled ‘Women Who Rock’, the opening event at Magnums features an all-star female cast, of Little Quirks, Loonaloop, Tess Fapani, Carinda Christie Band and Tiffany Grace.  

Meanwhile, the After Party will be headlined by Nathan Cavaleri, Skinny Living (UK), Mason Rack Band, Salt & Steel, Zed Charles Band, Matt Tandy and Mango Thieves.  

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Three-day pass holders have access to both additional events at no extra cost, with general admission three-day tickets priced at $340 and two-day passes costing $250.  

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Live it up like a rockstar

The Mentals aren’t the only ones who get to ‘Live it Up’, with VIP ticket-holders experiencing rockstar treatment in the main tent.  

VIP passes cost $1,200 and include an exclusive ocean-front section, separate amenities, buffet food and a daily six-hour drink package.  

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Discover new talent

Come for the big names and leave having found new favourites you’d never heard before.  

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The festival has a proud history of supporting emerging artists through its national Passport to Airlie initiative, dedicated to unearthing talent and launching careers.  

Warming the stage for Xavier Rudd on November 6, will be 10 regional finalists from this year’s Passport to Airlie heats, followed by 2025 national winners, Melbourne band, Monroe.

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No camping chairs required

Make no mistake – this isn’t your standard stage in a paddock; there’s no need to pack a picnic rug.  

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With a program spread throughout multiple licensed venues just a short stroll apart, and a free bus service by Whitsunday Transit, festivalgoers experience an entire town coming alive to the sound of music in an atmosphere that’s literally electric.  

Thanks to the lack of long queues, it’s about enjoying the music, not waiting in line.  

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The Ultimate Music Holiday

With jaw-dropping sea views from the main tent and world-famous natural icons just a boat ride away, the Airlie Beach Festival of Music is a tropical escape with a killer soundtrack.  

Tickets are on sale at www.airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au.

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The festival is supported by the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland, as well as Whitsunday Regional Council and Whitsunday Sailing Club.  

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The event was a finalist in the 2026 Queensland Music Awards for the People’s Choice Award ‘Festival of the Year’.  

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with Scamper Whitsunday Island Camping Connections

A unique way to see the Whitsundays is gaining popularity amongst nature-lovers, adventurers, and anyone desperate for a bit of peace and quiet.

Made for travellers craving a genuine escape, Scamper Camping Connections provides equipment, transport, and wisdom that allow visitors to leave the world behind and experience one of the world’s most remarkable natural environments completely au naturel.

Offering access to 14 National Park camping locations scattered throughout the islands, the goal is to make camping easy – so all you have to do is turn up and switch off.

Whether your idea of paradise is wandering the silica sands of Whitehaven Beach, discovering the secluded beauty of Chance Bay, snorkelling amongst the colourful creatures of Hook Island, or tackling the recently opened Ngaro Track, the experience is designed around freedom.

Unlike traditional day tours, camping allows visitors to immerse themselves in the islands without checking the clock. Days unfold lazily, and itineraries are steered by your wishes – not a tour guide.

"When you're camping, we drop you off, show you everything there is to do around your campsite, and then it's completely up to you,” explained Scamper Host Sarah Vickery.

“You can spend all day snorkelling, head off on a hike, or simply sit on the beach with a book and switch off."

That slower pace has become increasingly appealing.

While international backpackers once made up the majority of visitors, the business has seen a noticeable shift post-covid. Families, couples, solo adventurers and even older travellers are embracing the opportunity to reconnect with nature, particularly as new walking experiences like the Ngaro Track attract a broader range of outdoor enthusiasts.

For first-time campers, the thought of packing equipment, pitching tents and navigating island-hopping logistics can feel daunting, but that's where Scamper steps in to make things refreshingly simple.

Visitors can hire everything they need, from tents to camping essentials, with equipment chosen specifically because it's quick and easy to set up. Before departure, staff demonstrate how everything works, and once the adventure is over, campers simply return the gear – no need to even clean.

"We try to make it super easy," the team says.

"Our staff are all locals who love camping themselves, so they can recommend the best campsite depending on what people want from their holiday. Guests can really just arrive with some food, head out to the islands and enjoy themselves."

Behind the business are Tim and Sarah, whose combined over 30 years of marine experience have shaped every aspect of the operation. Tim grew up sailing through the Whitsundays with his father and has spent more than two decades as a qualified skipper, while Sarah's lifelong connection to the ocean began in a family that pioneered whale watching in Queensland. A qualified skipper for almost 15 years and a Master Reef Guide, she's passionate about helping visitors experience the natural wonders of the region responsibly.

In a world where holidays often become a race to tick tourist hotspots off a list before rushing back to work, this is an invitation to slow down and spend some time reconnecting with what matters: immersing yourself in remarkable nature with the ones you love and silencing those notifications.

So that when you come back, you feel like a new you.

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Is there anywhere better to spend winter than the North Queensland? Bringing more than sunny days and crystal-clear waters, the winter season turns the tropical waters into one of Australia's most spectacular whale-watching destinations, as thousands of humpback whales arrive on their annual migration from Antarctica.

Travelling more than 5,000 kilometres, these gentle giants leave the icy Southern Ocean for the sheltered, warm waters of the Whitsundays, where many females give birth and nurse their newborn calves. Research has confirmed that the Whitsundays is an important humpback birthing ground, with the area's unique mix of deep channels and shallow reef creating a safe nursery for mothers and calves.

The significance of this annual migration has earned the Whitsundays international recognition as a Whale Heritage Area – the first located within a UNESCO World Heritage-listed marine park. It is a title that celebrates both the region's extraordinary whale population and its commitment to protecting them.

For visitors, migration season offers countless opportunities to witness unforgettable wildlife encounters. Dedicated whale-watching cruises provide the best chance to see spectacular breaches, tail slaps and playful calves swimming alongside their mothers. Many Great Barrier Reef and Whitehaven Beach tours also encounter whales during winter, making every day on the water a potential front-row seat to nature's greatest show.

Even from the mainland, patient observers can sometimes spot whales from coastal lookouts on calm days.

Whether you're cruising across turquoise waters or watching from shore, seeing a humpback whale in its natural habitat is one of North Queensland’s most memorable winter experiences—and a compelling reason to visit during migration season.

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Graceful, gentle, and ancient; there are not many encounters that beat seeing a sea turtle float on the currents of Great Barrier Reef.  

Whether you're snorkelling the fringing reefs of the Whitsundays or exploring the islands and bays around Mission Beach, there’s nothing that soothes the nervous system like bobbing on the current watching a turtle nibbling on seagrass, or poking its head out into the sun to take a deep breath.  

The stretch of coastline between the Whitsundays and the Cassowary Coast is one of Australia's most important turtle habitats, home to six of the world's seven sea turtle species—green, hawksbill, loggerhead, flatback, olive ridley and leatherback—making it one of the best places on Earth to witness them at ease in their natural environment.

Green turtles are the most commonly encountered around the Whitsundays, often seen grazing on seagrass meadows or resting beneath coral ledges. Growing to more than a metre in length and weighing up to 180 kilograms, they are named not for their shells but for the green colour of the fat beneath their skin, which comes from their largely vegetarian diet.

Hawksbill turtles are instantly recognisable by their beautifully patterned amber-and-brown shells and narrow, pointed beaks, perfectly adapted for reaching into coral crevices to feed on sponges. Loggerhead turtles, with their broad heads and powerful jaws, specialise in crushing hard-shelled prey such as crabs, molluscs and sea urchins.  

Flatback turtles, found almost exclusively in Australian waters, have a flatter, smoother shell than other species and prefer the continental shelf rather than venturing into the open ocean.

The elusive Olive Ridley is the smallest of Queensland's sea turtles and is only occasionally seen along the reef, while the Leatherback—the world's largest sea turtle—can reach two metres in length and weigh up to 900 kilograms. Unlike the hard-shelled species, Leatherbacks have a flexible, leathery shell that helps them dive to extraordinary depths in search of jellyfish.

Sea turtles have inhabited Earth's oceans for more than 120 million years, surviving the extinction of the dinosaurs and countless changes to the planet. Yet life is far from easy. Females return to the very beaches where they hatched decades earlier to lay their eggs, and when hatchlings emerge, only around one in every thousand is expected to survive to adulthood.

Beyond their beauty, turtles are vital to the health of the Great Barrier Reef. Green turtles keep seagrass meadows healthy through grazing, while hawksbills help maintain the balance of coral reefs by feeding on fast-growing sponges that can otherwise outcompete corals.

Today, these remarkable reptiles face threats from marine debris, habitat loss and climate change. Plastic bags, in particular, are easily mistaken for jellyfish, making responsible tourism and thoughtful conservation more important than ever.

For travellers, seeing a sea turtle drifting effortlessly through the warm tropical waters of North Queensland is more than a bucket-list moment. It's a chance to share the ocean with one of the planet's most enduring animals; a true icon of the Great Barrier Reef.  

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With The Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival  

Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Whitsunday coastline, the Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival is returning for its 26th edition this July 25^th and 26th, inviting competitors to test their limits at one of North Queensland's most celebrated endurance events.  

This year’s course has been refreshed to deliver a faster, safer and more spectator-friendly experience.  

It all begins in the calm waters of Airlie Bay, where athletes dive into a stunning open-water swim, before hitting the bike for a hilly coastal ride that rewards strength, rhythm and determination.

Then comes the run.  

Winding along the picturesque foreshore, the new multi-lap course has been adapted to be more spectator-friendly, so supporters are never far away, cheering on their loved ones as the finish line draws closer with every stride.

From the first time competitors dive into the water, to the last wobbly step over the finish line, it’s as beautiful as it is challenging.  

This year, the course will also be taken on by some of Australia's biggest names in triathlon, with a world-class professional field set to light up Airlie Beach.

Headlined by Canberra powerhouse Penny Slater, Australian stars Jake Birtwhistle and Josh Ferris, IRONMAN standout Chloe Hartnett and PTO World No. 61 Caleb Noble, the star-studded lineup promises elite racing and plenty of excitement for spectators.

The family-friendly event offers distances for every ability, giving everyone the chance to test their limits and be part of the challenge.

A seasoned triathlete.

A newbie taking on their first race.

A mum determined to inspire her kids.

Mates chasing bragging rights.

Whether you're chasing a podium or simply proving to yourself that you can, every finish begins the same way — one stroke, one pedal, one step forward.

The biggest cheers of the weekend might not be for the fastest athletes. They’ll likely be awarded to the littlest competitors, with the McDonald's Airlie Beach Junior Triathlon giving children as young as eight the chance to experience their first triathlon and discover what they're capable of.

Whether aiming for the win or simply to cross the finish line, the festival offers everyone the chance to build confidence, courage and memories that might just spark a lifelong love of the sport.

Secure your place at airliebeachtriathlon.com.au  

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Just a short drive inland from the Whitsunday coast, Lake Proserpine offers a refreshing change of pace. Surrounded by lush bushland and peaceful mountain views, this expansive freshwater lake is the perfect destination for anyone looking to slow down, cast a line or simply soak up North Queensland's natural beauty.

Best known as one of Australia's premier barramundi fishing destinations, Lake Proserpine attracts anglers from across the country in search of the legendary metre-long barra.  

If fishing isn't your thing, choose water sports- or simply settling in a camp chair and watching the day go by. Spend lazy afternoons kayaking and paddleboarding across the calm waters, or turn your gaze to the sky for a spot of native birdspotting.

Make your perfect day a weekend adventure, and set up camp at Lake Proserpine Holiday Park; a family-friendly retreat where you’re bound to make a friend or two.

On your way to the lake, be sure to stop in Proserpine for a coffee break. The town has welcomed a recent addition to its café scene with The Garage Café, a stylish new local favourite serving quality coffee and other beverages. If you're only ordering one thing, make it the iced mocha. The perfect companion for a warm Whitsunday day, it's well worth the stop before continuing your adventure.

Whether you're chasing trophy fish, exploring beyond the coastline or simply looking for a scenic day trip, Lake Proserpine showcases a different side of the Whitsundays—one that's peaceful, picturesque and well worth discovering.

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With Mel Brookes from Oceanic Tales

Sometimes the most meaningful missions begin with an unexpected moment - an experience that sets you on an entirely new course.

For Airlie Beach locals Mel and Josh Brookes, together with their sons Reef and Jett, everything changed in the September school holidays of 2024, when Reef was stung by an Irukandji jellyfish at Boathaven Beach.

“It was pretty horrific,” Mel recounted.  

“Reef initially came out of the water thinking that he had been pinched by a crab. I washed his ankle to get the sand off it, and we noticed blister-looking welts appear. Then, the pain just hit him straight away.”  

Reef’s little brother Jett instinctively ran to find a vinegar bottle – knowledge that Mel thanks Junior Lifeguards for instilling in him. Then, they called an ambulance.  

“They put a heart monitor ECG machine on him, and it just kept skyrocketing through the roof.” Mel said.  

“That’s when I went into shock, realising he was suffering Irukandji syndrome. For three or four hours his heart rate just kept climbing and dropping, climbing and dropping.

“It was a shock that it happened, and especially during the September school holidays, because we’re avid beach goers.  

“We have all been led to believe that stingers are only around November to February – but that’s not true.”

The incident set Mel on a mission- not to instil fear of the ocean, but to educate people to enjoy it more safely.

It began when Mel was on the sofa with Reef searching for a grab-and-go marine safety kit that would allow the family to jump back into the ocean without fear.  

“There was really nothing.” Mel said.  

“Reef actually turned around to me and said: ‘Why don't we create one?’”

From there, Mel and her family began researching, designing and building what would become the start of Oceanic Tales.

Within just a few weeks, the first Oceanic Tales Marine Kit had arrived at their doorstep. It just as quick to start selling, in the Whitsundays community and around Australia.  

While the Marine Kit was Oceanic Tales’ first product, it was never just about selling a bag. It became a practical teaching tool, allowing the Brookes family to visit schools, sporting clubs, community groups and Junior Lifeguards to share marine safety in a simple, hands on and memorable way.

"Our vision is simple," Mel explained.

"We want more people enjoying the ocean with confidence, knowing they're better prepared for whatever comes their way."

Now, Oceanic Tales are expanding, offering quality, premium performance stinger suits in material that mimics the swirling sands of Whitehaven Beach. This first design is named ‘The Reef Suit’, as Reef sketched the jellyfish design emblazoned across the back.  

One of the proudest moments on Brookes family’s journey so far was travelling to Brisbane to be recognised by the Royal Life Saving Society Queensland for their contribution to community water safety - a milestone that reinforced the impact their initiative was already having.  

Another has been watching both of the boys grow; particularly Reef, who now confidently shares his own story through public speaking.

Today, Oceanic Tales remains a true family business, with Mel leading education and community engagement, Josh helping bring their ideas to life around his 7/7 roster. Reef sparks ideas, and younger brother Jett gives unwavering support, every step of the journey.

Looking back, Mel says the frightening day that inspired the business still drives everything they do.  

"The day Reef was stung changed our family's life," she said.

"If sharing our story helps just one family feel more prepared before heading into the ocean, then every step of this journey has been worth it."

oceanictales.com.au

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With Ocean Rafting Hamilton Island

Visitors seeking adventure, twists and turns, hidden beaches and authentic local knowledge need look no further.  

For almost three decades, Ocean Rafting has been offering high-speed adventures across the turquoise Whitsunday waters, providing holidaymakers with endless unforgettable days in one of the most beautiful corners of the world.  

Now, the award-winning tourism operator is celebrating a new milestone: the first anniversary of Ocean Rafting Hamilton Island, an event that marks a powerful first chapter of the company's ongoing evolution.

Already a familiar name for day-trippers departing from Airlie Beach and Daydream Island, Ocean Rafting has spent the past 12 months establishing a presence on Hamilton Island, bringing a new range of experiences to guests staying on one of Australia's most iconic island destinations.

The expansion has been a huge success, with countless new visitors able to access some of the Whitsundays' most spectacular locations and experience the warm, adventure-focused approach that has made Ocean Rafting’s vessels a key fixture of the Whitsunday landscape over 29 years.

Operating from an office opposite the Hamilton Island Marina Tavern, Ocean Rafting Hamilton Island offers three signature experiences departing directly from the island, alongside a dedicated fishing charter.

The flagship Full Day Eco Adventure combines many of the region's highlights into a single experience, taking guests to the world-famous Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet lookout and to secluded snorkelling locations on the fringing Great Barrier Reef.

For travellers with less time to spare, the Half Day Dash provides a condensed adventure featuring Hill Inlet and Whitehaven Beach, while the Half Day Splash focuses on snorkelling, allowing guests to discover colourful coral gardens and abundant marine life without committing to a full-day itinerary.

Rounding out the Hamilton Island offerings is a half-day fishing charter, giving anglers the opportunity to experience the rich waters surrounding the Whitsunday Islands under the guidance of experienced, fun-loving local skippers.

"Expanding to Hamilton Island has been an exciting step for Ocean Rafting," CEO Cole Claxton said. "Over the past year we've loved introducing even more visitors to the incredible beauty of the Whitsundays, and we're grateful for how the Hamilton Island community have welcomed us."

The year has seen a host of happy customers consistently praising the knowledgeable, warm crew, seamless organisation and breathtaking locations visited throughout the tours, with many guests describing the experience as a highlight of their holiday.

Purpose-built vessels allow Ocean Rafting to access Hill Inlet, Whitehaven Beach and secluded snorkelling locations that many larger boats simply can't reach. Combined with long-held permits and nearly three decades of local knowledge, guests are delivered secret slices of paradise and chances to get up close with rare wildlife.  

The Hamilton Island expansion has seen four vessels join the fleet, and, in keeping with one of the company's traditions, each vessel was named after a song.

Leading the Hamilton Island fleet are Love Shack, Valerie and Billie Jean, while the fishing charter vessel carries the suitably fierce name Predator.

Whilst Ocean Rafting charts new adventures, its foundation remains in family.  

CEO Cole Claxton and Chief Operating Officer Kerr Claxton work closely together in leading the company's continued growth, building on the vision established by their parents, Jan and Pete.

Though the company is growing, many faces on the tours stay familiar, with long-term staff fully integrated within the Ocean Rafting family.  

Along the way, the operator has advocated for the reef and pushed to protect the landscapes that the team witness instilling wonder within their visitors every day.  

“We’re incredibly proud to be family operated three generations strong.” Chief Operating Officer Kerr Claxton said.  

“We’re incredibly proud to have been operating out of Hamilton Island over the last year – it’s a 7-day a week operation so we’re always busy but we’re so proud. We’re very lucky to call the Whitsundays our back yard and offer such unique experiences.”  

As Ocean Rafting Hamilton Island celebrates its first birthday, the milestone is less about looking back than marking the beginning of another epic adventure, building on nearly three decades of experience while welcoming a new generation of visitors to experience the Whitsundays by sea.

Testimonials:

The whole experience was unforgettable! Jess and Cody were absolute legends — fun, knowledgeable, and full of energy, which made the trip even more exciting.

The kids had the best time and were entertained from start to finish.
The beach, the views, the ride… everything was spot on.

-Cuong Luo

From the fun and fast 30 minute boat ride to our beautiful destination, to the cracker tunes along the way and great humour, we would highly recommend! The crew went out of their way to make sure we had a great time and we absolutely did. Great way to explore Whitehaven and snorkel at an amazing location! Thank you!

- Lucy Oliveri

The service and attention we were given was second to none and money you can't buy service. The knowledge and experience the boys had gave my boys memories that will last a lifetime. We caught a lot of fish on the tour and we kept a sweet lips and a coral trout and was cooked at marina. Honestly I can't thank the boys enough for the amazing experience and knowledge.

- Monique Barrett

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Imagine watching billowing sails push pristine yachts across the turquoise waters of the Whitsundays, drink in hand, sunnies on, and music playing on the breeze. What could be more perfect?  

Returning from 15^th to 22^nd August, Hamilton Island Race Week is set to deliver another unforgettable week of exhilarating racing and island indulgence. Now in its 41st year, the iconic regatta has already attracted more than 170 entries, cementing its place as Australia's premier offshore sailing event.

Set against the spectacular backdrop of the Great Barrier Reef, the fleet ranges from world-class racing yachts to family crews and first-time competitors, all chasing glory across the sparkling Whitsunday Passage.  

Among this year's headline acts is the legendary 100-foot Wild Thing 100, while internationally renowned yachtsman Karl Kwok returns with Beau Ideal to contest the Super 40 division, adding further international prestige to the fleet.

For those watching from shore, however, Race Week offers just as much excitement beyond the finish line.

What began as a sailing regatta has evolved into one of the country's most desirable sporting and lifestyle festivals, where award-winning dining, premium wines, live entertainment and luxury experiences are all part of the itinerary.

This year's social program showcases some of Australia's biggest culinary and sporting names, including an exclusive Long Lunch with celebrated chefs Josh Niland and Khanh Ong, presented by American Express, at Niland's Catseye Pool Club. Guests can also hear from Olympic silver medallist Olivia Price and America's Cup sailor Cole Tapper during an intimate discussion at Bommie Restaurant, sip their way through the Kylie Minogue Wines Garden Party, indulge at the Tanqueray Supper Club at Romano's, or settle in for the ever-popular Race Day Long Lunch overlooking the marina.  

For the ultimate vantage point, spectator cruises aboard luxury superyacht Rascal place guests right alongside the action.

Whether you're drawn by the thrill of world-class sailing, exceptional food and wine, or simply the chance to experience the Whitsundays at their most vibrant, Hamilton Island Race Week is more than an event—it's the perfect excuse to escape to paradise.

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It has become one of the Whitsundays' defining traditions.

Now, after 25 years of unforgettable moments, the Cruise Whitsundays Great Barrier Reef Festival is ready to celebrate its biggest milestone yet.

To honour the occasion, this year's celebrations will shimmer in silver, with the anniversary theme woven throughout the festival as a tribute to the strength, resilience and community spirit that have carried the event through a quarter of a century.

For one weekend, Airlie Beach will once again become the beating heart of the Whitsundays.  

The streets will burst with colour.

The foreshore will come to life with music.  

Families, businesses, volunteers and visitors will come together to celebrate the natural wonder that has inspired generations.

What began as a community celebration has grown into one of regional Queensland's most iconic festivals, bringing thousands of people together each year while proudly showcasing everything that makes the Whitsundays special.

"Celebrating 25 years is not only a chance to reflect on how far the festival has come, it's also a vote of confidence in where we're headed," Festival Chair Heather Batrick said.

"We're incredibly grateful for the support we've received from both our returning and new sponsors."

Their support has helped shape one of the festival's strongest programs yet, bringing together returning favourites and exciting new experiences for this milestone celebration.

For three days, Airlie Beach will become a stage for everything the Whitsundays do best.  

Celebrating its reef, its people and its unmistakable community spirit.

Twenty-five years on, the celebration is only just getting started.

greatbarrierreeffestival.com.au

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A Playground Of Discovery, Creativity & Adventure

The final day belongs to curious minds, messy hands and family fun.  

Tasman Holiday Parks Family Fun Day proves the Great Barrier Reef isn't just something to admire but it's something to experience and grab ahold of.  

From 10am, the Airlie Beach Foreshore transforms into a playground of discovery, creativity and adventure.

Children can tackle circus workshops, dazzle themselves with face painting, enjoy crazy races, treasure hunts and the ever-popular donut eating competition, while hands-on reef activities bring the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef to life.

Eco Barge, Daydream Island's Living Reef team and local tourism operators are among those sharing the stories behind the reef, giving kids a chance to learn about the prized world wonder.  

While the kids explore, parents can relax with live music, local food vendors and the enticed opening of the pop-up bar at 12pm, while getting the chance to wander the expanded ‘immerse’

Art installation one last time.  

Then comes one of the festival's most anticipated spectacles.

The Recyclable Regatta.

Starting at 1pm off the Airlie Beach foreshore, schools, businesses, community groups and families take to the water in homemade vessels built almost entirely from recycled materials, in a contest that's as entertaining as it is unpredictable.

Built entirely from recyclable materials, every raft is a reflection of its crew's imagination.  

Some glide effortlessly around through the waves.  

Others barely make it off the beach.  

Either way, the laughs come thick and fast.

Pirates, superheroes and colourful crews paddle with everything they've got before making one final dash up the sand, where every teammate must cross the finish line together.

Victory is sweet for some but the memories, and the inevitable wipeouts, are what keep the crowd coming back year after year.  

It's one of the festival's most entertaining traditions. After all, in the Recyclable Regatta, crossing the finish line is only half the victory.  

The other is doing it without sinking.  

What: Tasman Holiday Park Family Fun Day  

When: Sunday 2^nd August, 10am - 2pm

Where: Airlie Beach Foreshore  

What: Recyclable Regatta  

When: Sunday 2^nd August, 5pm to 6pm

Where: Airlie Beach Foreshore  

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Where Light Meets the Sea  

Lanterns have long symbolised hope, guidance and new beginnings.

As dusk settles over Airlie Beach, hundreds of glowing creations once again illuminate the foreshore, officially welcoming another Great Barrier Reef Festival through the beloved Coral Sea Marina Resort Lantern Parade.

The magic begins well before sunset, with families and children gathering at lantern-making workshops to decorate their own masterpieces with vibrant colours, patterns and unique touches.

Then, they'll carry their handmade charms through the heart of the celebration.

The glowing procession winds from The Garden Bar Bistro at Coral Sea Marina along the Bicentennial Boardwalk to Fairy Tree Park, drawing crowds as it goes.

The journey ends at the Movie Screen, where a moving Welcome to Country and traditional dance officially open the festival weekend.

Following the lantern parade and welcome to country dance, the live music opens up from the foreshore stage to send the town into the festive frenzy.  

With live music filling the waterfront, families can wander between roving performers, colourful carnival rides and pop-up entertainment.

The Night Markets offer something for everyone, with locally made art, handcrafted gifts and unique Whitsunday treasures lining the foreshore.

Nearby, Whitsunday Foodservice Eat Street serves up everything from street food favourites and gourmet bites to sweet treats from local food trucks and pop-up eateries.

Then comes “Immerse”.  

The Spectacular reef-inspired art installations will begin to glow as the night grows longer.

Bringing the underwater world to life through colourful, illuminated sculptures made from recycled marine debris.  

It’s a visual experience that showcases the reef's beautiful and fragile nature.  

However, the race for a good spot is never too far out of view, with the AirBNB Fireworks show kicking off on the foreshore at 8pm.  

This firework display creates an explosion over the Coral Sea, as families gaze upon the night sky filled with lights.  

Almost as if it was reflecting the Great Barrier Reef.  

What: Coral Sea Marina Lantern Parade and AirBNB Fireworks on the Foreshore

When: Friday 31^st July, 5:30 pm - 10:30 pm

Where: Coral Sea Marina and Airlie Beach Foreshore  

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The Festival Finds its Playlist  

Saturday leaves an imprint on your eyes with the shiny chrome cars and the stunning magic of the street parade.

But when night falls, the memories are made by sound.

The music takes over.

The crowd drifts back towards the foreshore. The lights grow brighter. The first chords strum across the Coral Sea, echoing through the crowd. Before long, the waterfront has become one giant dance floor.  

The Founder graces the stage first at 6pm. The 4 man band from Mackay sets the tone with an indie beat that relaxes the crowd, slowly warming up their feet for a long night.  

If you haven’t listened to these guys before, trust they will join your playlist after. They bring a fresh, very engaging sound to the crowd.  

If you're planning on standing still, ALCHAMUNK might have other ideas.  

The Mackay trio's slick fusion of funk, groove and youthful energy has built a reputation for getting crowds moving, making them the perfect fit for a winter night on the foreshore.

The Chris Baker Band brings a setlist that spans generations.  

This blend of country, classic rock, blues and Australian favourites turns into a performance packed with familiar anthems set to get the crowd involved.  

Your headline is truly special, one that takes swagger to another level. Kingswood.  

The explosive mix of modern country rock and heartland grit, delivers driving guitars, huge hooks, and a sound that moves the crowd through a wave of emotions.  

From punchy rock energy to slow, storytelling singalongs, it has a bit of something for everyone.  

Just when you think the night can't climb any higher, your eyes begin to drift skyward when you notice something floating.  

Suspended above the crowd, aerial artist Kara Enigma delivers an awe-inspiring performance that feels equal parts strength, while showing off grace in a theatrical show.

What: Beach Music Live Event

When: Satursay 1^st August, 5:30pm – 10pm

Where: Airlie Beach Foreshore  

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Shifting the Festival into High Gear

From fireworks to horsepower, the celebrations shift into another gear.

Saturday sees Airlie Beach's Main Street transformed into a showcase of chrome, colour and community.

Proudly sponsored by Hog’s Breath Airlie Beach, the Revvin Reef Car show puts on display the finest cars from around the region.  

Some admire timeless classics. Others prefer modern marvels. And for a few, nothing beats the unmistakable rumble of a motorbike long before it comes into view.

Well, whatever you like, you’ll most likely see it here.  

Hot Rods, Muscle Cars, Classic Cars, EVs, Motorbikes, and Trucks, it has a bit of something for everyone.  

The nostalgia doesn't stop with the vehicles.

Festivalgoers are encouraged to embrace the vintage spirit, dressing in retro, rockabilly or pin-up inspired fashion to bring even more character to the streets.  

Vehicle registrations open from 8am, giving owners the chance to show off the pride and passion behind their prized machines before the public takes over.

Attendees will cast their votes to decide the Top 10 vehicles, with every polished panel, roaring engine and meticulous detail competing for crowd approval.

But polished chrome soon gives way to colour.

As the engines fall silent, Airlie Beach's Main Street forms into one giant birthday party.

Presented by Club Whitsunday, the Street Parade embodies 25 years of the festival with reef-inspired floats, larger-than-life costumes and a thumping community spirit.

Every float tells a different part of the reef, with colourful coral beds, tropical fish and sea turtles, and plenty of silver sparkle rolling through the main street of Airlie Beach.  

Locals and visitors will be lining the streets, cheering on schools, businesses, sporting clubs and community groups, admiring their pieces of floating art.  

Whether you're watching in awe from the footpath, or prancing through the streets in your own float, it's hard not to get caught up in the celebration.  

What: Hog’s Breath Revvin the Reef Car Show  

When: Saturday, 1^st August 10am - 2pm

Where: Airlie Beach Main Street  

What: Club Whitsundays Street Parade

When: Saturday 1^st August, 5pm - 6pm

Where: Airlie Beach Main Street

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Xavier Rudd, Mark Seymour, Mental as Anything, The Whitlams, Conrad Sewell, Nathan Cavaleri and more, complete main stage lineup for November 2026

The call is out for fans of Xavier Rudd to ‘Follow the Sun’ to the 2026 Airlie Beach Festival of Music from November 6-8.

Set to arrive straight from a European festival tour, the popular Australian singer-songwriter says in addition to his much-loved catalogue of hits, a few surprises are in store for ticketholders at the Whitsundays’ iconic waterfront ‘party in paradise’.

“My music is definitely a celebration of our natural world, so a place like Airlie feels especially aligned with songs like ‘Follow the Sun’,” he said.

“These are the kinds of shows I love, and hopefully, weather permitting, we can actually pull down the tent and play under the stars!”

Hunters and Collectors frontman, Mark Seymour, is another homegrown success story who’ll be packing his bags to join Rudd at Queensland’s ‘ultimate music holiday’.  

“Think sunshine, beach, short trousers, open-toe shoes – it’s incredibly beautiful and a pretty unique part of the world,” he said, committing to both “a significantly updated set”, and the delivery of classics now etched into the musical story of the nation, like ‘Talking to a Stranger’, ‘Throw Your Arms Around Me’ and ‘Holy Grail’.

Also urging festivalgoers to ‘Live it Up’ in Airlie Beach is beloved Australian band Mental As Anything, whose performance will form part of a historic 50^th anniversary tour, comprising a limited number of exclusive festival appearances and select metropolitan headline shows.  

Original member and iconic pop artist, Reg Mombassa, is promising fans a rare and unforgettable opportunity to experience the band’s timeless hits live once more, and celebrate their unique blend of songwriting, artistry, and performance flair.

In total agreeance that there’s ‘No Aphrodisiac’ quite like it, are The Whitlams, whose frontman Tim Freedman says the band is thrilled to be one of the festival’s headliners for 2026.  

“I’ve been wanting to return to the Whitsundays for decades and now we have the chance,” he said, adding: “it’s a great line-up, music lifts the soul, and we rock!”

Chart-topper Conrad Sewell is similarly primed to add some signature tunes to the mix, including his juggernaut Kygo collaboration, ‘Firestone’, and platinum hit ‘Healing Hands’.  

Meanwhile, Nathan Cavaleri, the former child prodigy whose talents became the focus of a bidding war between the record labels of Michael Jackson, Madonna and Prince, cites energy, presence, and human connection as qualities he’ll be bringing to the event.  

Other additions to the 2026 lineup include The Radiators, Adam Harvey, 19-Twenty, Skinny Living (UK), Little Quirks, Ben Ransom, Nicky Bomba’s ‘Bustamento’, Loonaloop, Salt & Steel and the Airlie Beach Festival of Music’s 2025 Passport to Airlie competition winners, Monroe.  

The Airlie Beach Festival of Music features more than 60 acts, spread throughout 16 venues, with a main stage on the water’s edge at the Whitsunday Sailing Club.  

Tickets are on sale now at www.airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au costing $340 for a three-day pass, or $1,200 for a VIP package, both including entry to the opening and after parties that bookend the main event.  

The Airlie Beach Festival of Music is supported by the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland, along with Whitsunday Regional Council and the Whitsunday Sailing Club.  

The event was a finalist in the 2026 Queensland Music Awards for the People’s Choice Award ‘Festival of the Year’.

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The Whitsunday Escape Family

In 2017, Cyclone Debbie struck Airlie Beach. In the eye of the storm, Trevor Rees made his way down to the marina to check on the Whitsunday Escape fleet before the wind started roaring again.

There was no phone reception, no radios that could call for back-up. But, as he began checking for damage and securing any untied boats, Trevor was quickly joined by five staff members.

It was a moment that showed Trevor his team had his back, without him even having to ask.

When he looked back at the carpark, the only cars at the marina belonged to Whitsunday Escape employees.

That memory gives him goosebumps to this day.

It’s testimony to the spirit that holds Whitsunday Escape’s tight-knit team together. It’s what makes them a family. The way they turn up for one another, and genuinely care.

The crew are united by their passion for the Whitsundays, and it’s this love that drives the business.

Service starts with the reservations team; the friendly voices on the phone and the warm smiles at check-in. With a wealth of local area knowledge, the team make planning easy, matching visitors with their perfect bareboat holiday.

The dock team are next on hand, assisting guests from the start to finish of their time on the boat, giving them all the insider information needed to make them confident and ready to sail.

The detailing team are the silent heroes – the ones customers rarely get to meet. They work diligently behind the scenes and have a genuine love for making each boat sparkle.

Senior management steers the ship, providing daily customer and staff support.

It’s a well-oiled machine, built on support, respect, and a drive to create meaningful lasting memories, that will continue to thrive in this next stage of the business under the confident leadership of General Manager Jaclyn Watson.

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With Jaclyn Watson

With Trevor Rees retiring from his position as Managing Director at Whitsunday Escape, the notion that he leaves “big shoes to fill” rings especially true for his successor, Jaclyn Watson.

Having already played an integral role in the multi-award-winning company’s leadership team for almost 15 years, Jaclyn does however, have a giant head start.

“In all this time of working with Trevor, together we have navigated major business decisions, industry shifts and personal milestones and I have had the benefit of seeing his leadership style up close,” she said.

“My key takeout is that integrity has always been at the core of how he operates, and it is that integrity that has shaped the culture of Whitsunday Escape, including how we treat our investors, guests, suppliers and our team.

“As I step forward now, that is what I want to honour – doing what we say we will do – and if we hold on to that foundation, I know the business will remain strong.”

With her background and skill set in relationship-building and project management, Jaclyn’s vision for Whitsunday Escape is that the company continues to set the benchmark for bareboat charters in Australia, through investing in a modern fleet and delivering a seamless experience for guests.

“The Whitsundays is already one of the most iconic tourism destinations in the country and with the 2032 Olympics coming to Queensland, global attention will only increase,” she said.

“We now have an opportunity to position the Whitsundays as Australia’s leading sailing destination and that is a really exciting prospect.”

Dedicated to leading a team that delivers the company’s expectations, which are ultimately about providing a holiday-of-a-lifetime to guests, Jaclyn says some things will stay the same.

“Whitsunday Escape has always been about people and as we move into this next chapter that will not change – we will continue to focus on long-term relationships and sustainable growth,” she said.

“The Whitsundays is a remarkable place to live and work and I am proud to help lead a business that showcases it to the world.”

As for her parting words to a colleague, mentor, and friend: “Trevor, I am deeply grateful,” she said.

“Thank you for building a company with such strong values and a solid reputation; I hope you feel proud of what you have created, and I promise we will carry it forward with care.”

To keep up to date as this next stage unfolds, visit www.whitsundayescape.com and follow Whitsunday Escape on Facebook and Instagram.

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Growing up in Cape Town, South Africa, Trevor Rees never dreamt that one day he would co-own one of one of the most globally successful bareboat charter businesses, thousands of miles away, in Australia's Airlie Beach.

Escaping the harsh realities of a country divided by apartheid, Trevor's family initially set sail for the Caribbean where his journey into the realm of charter boats and brokering began.

Inspired by legendary maritime adventurers like Sir Francis Chichester, it was also around this time that Trevor's personal plan to sail the seven seas was hatched.

In 1985, together with his new wife, Katie, and aboard their newly acquired 36-ft ketch, a voyage into the South Pacific commenced.

Having discovered that Katie was pregnant along the way, the couple never made it to a safe harbour to give birth.

Baby Justin Rees was delivered at sea, somewhere between French Polynesia and American Samoa, five weeks prematurely, at 3am, in near-storm conditions while the wind was blowing 35 knots.

"I cut the umbilical cord with a pair of scissors and when it was all over, I recorded the latitude and longitude and we all just fell asleep," Trevor said.

"Technically one of us should have been on watch but I figured what were the chances of being run over by a cargo ship and having a baby at sea all on the same night!"

Waking up the next morning as a family of three was the dawn of a new era, culminating in the completion of a two-and-a-half-year voyage to Australia, birth of a second son, and start of a new life in the nautical hub of Airlie Beach.

In this gateway to the iconic Whitsunday Islands, a fledgling charter industry was starting to bloom, within which Trevor's skills were perfectly placed.

From humble beginnings at the bareboat business, Whitsunday Escape, Trevor went on to become a managing director, steering this proverbial ship to regional, state and national acclaim, across a tenure lasting over 25 years.

Known for being a staunch environmental defender, Trevor also used his knowledge and growing influence to push for legislative reform in the fields of eco-tourism, reef protection and climate change.

In addition to playing pivotal roles on a number of tourism advisory and conservation committees, he was one of the key figures behind a successful campaign to ban capital dredging on the Great Barrier Reef.

While still actively championing causes close to his heart, the time has now come for Trevor to step back from his beloved business and hit the high seas once again, this time aboard his aptly named catamaran, Escape Artist.

Although there are no aspirations to finish a global circumnavigation back to South Africa, Trevor, his second wife Julie, and their little dog Scrat, plan to cruise to Tasmania, while still maintaining a foothold in the Whitsundays, where Trevor emphatically says: “we’ll be back”.

To hear more of Trevor’s incredible story, visit the Whitsunday People Podcast on YouTube or Spotify.

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To many members of the Whitsunday community, Libby Edge needs little introduction. She has spent years investing in Whitsunday’s conservation community, and as founder of EcoBarge, she continues to do important work for Whitsundays marine life.

Libby’s work has come from years of passion and dedication.

“I started EcoBarge about 17 years ago,” Libby said.

“I became aware of a 60 Minute Documentary on the Hawaiian Islands and all the rubbish that was washing up. I went on a camping expedition with my family and saw my daughter playing with rubbish along the beach. I realised the problem was here on our own shores. I knew I had to do something about it.”

This realisation led to years of campaigning and work, resulting in initiatives keeping our oceans clean today.

“We’ve been working hard ever since then to protect the Whitsundays islands from marine debris.” Libby said.

Over the last 17 years, over 14,000 community members have helped to remove over 280,000 kilograms of debris and rubbish from beaches and marine areas.

In 2012, Libby helped to start the Whitsunday Turtle Rescue Centre, located at Eco Barge HQ, which continues to rescue, rehabilitate and release sick and injured marine turtles, giving them a second chance to return home to the sea. To date, over 300 turtles have been cared for.

Just recently, more than 200 community members gathered at Funnel Bay to witness the heartwarming release of two such turtles.

“It was really amazing to see so many people show up for the release,” Libby .

The turtles, affectionately named Taylor and Swifty, were cared for at the Whitsunday Turtle Rescue Centre after being found at Funnel Bay in a critical condition just two months ago. They were released back into the water after a full recovery.

Even after 17 years, Libby’s passion for conservation remains strong.

“We’re dealing with a dark issue, but in a positive way. When I started, I was quite upset about it all. I still get emotional. However what amazed me was the amount of people that wanted to join me to remove marine debris. What really keeps me going is the sheer amount of people who offer their support.”

EcoBarge remains hard at work protecting the Whitsunday’s precious marine life.

“As humans that live in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, it is our duty to protect it. Thats what EcoBarge is all about. I want to thank every single volunteer and everyone whose volunteered. Lets keep up the good work.”

For more information about Eco Barge or to support the Whitsunday Turtle Rescue Centre, visit www.ecoabargecleanseas.org.au

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