General News
28 August, 2025
They’ve got talent at Miallo
IT has been a busy winter period in the Douglas Shire and, with springtime on the way, Miallo State School is gearing up for its annual talent quest ‘M Factor’.
Students will be stepping up to sing, dance, play an instrument or show some other special talent.
With auditions now completed, those about to go under the spotlight have started fine-tuning their performances which will no doubt be perfect on the big day.
At this stage, it is still a secret as to who the celebrity judges will be this year.
In previous years there has been a range of famous celebrities who have flown in to be judge for the occasion ... allegedly, of course.
These big names have apparently included Katy Perry, Darth Vader, T Rex, Wednesday Adams, Cat in the Hat, Queen Elizabeth, Elvis, Dora the Explorer, Captain Jack Sparrow, Minnie Mouse, Dame Edna and Thor … to name a few.
Oscar, one of this year’s contestants said: “M Factor is great for expressing yourself through the rhythm of music”.
Principal Anet Ridley said “it’s a great opportunity for students to step up and show off their creative talent. We look forward to it every year”.
“It’s always super funny as well, as our celebrity judges ham it up and keep us laughing,” she said.
The performances and judging will all take place on September 3 from 9.15am in the main school hall and no doubt there will be a large audience supporting all of the acts.
The school has a had a number of social activities recently, including their trivia night on Saturday, August 9, with (as it was described), jaw-dropping brain-teasers, rapid-fire rounds for cash prizes and ultimate bragging rights.
The Mexican food bar was sizzling with tacos and nachos, plus the bar made the evening, of course, even more special. Parents could relax thanks to babysitting and a movie screening for the Miallo kids.
Miallo P&C president Marcus Wilson said the event raised nearly $5000, with all proceeds going towards the school’s new junior playground project.
“We’re incredibly proud of the turnout and the support we received,” he said.
“The silent auction alone brought in $2700 and once we added ticket sales and bar takings, it was clear the night was a huge success” he added.
Organisers thanked everyone who attended with a special thanks to their quiz master Mark Barnes, the dedicated P&C volunteers and the generous local businesses who donated numerous fantastic auction items. Overall, it was a true community effort.
Well, I’m off to say chookas to all of these budding M Factor superstars, so for now it’s Gazza signing out.
Send your stories to gazza@cairnslocalnews.com.au
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