Entertainment
26 June, 2026
Quiz was not a trivial matter
AIR guitars were shredding, mimes were mimicking and trivia tragics were in their element as Mission Beach’s much-loved rock quiz roared into its 20th year delivering what many long-time participants declared the “best one ever.”
What began in Alice Springs two decades ago has grown into a uniquely Mission Beach tradition, drawing friends from across Australia for an afternoon of music trivia, outrageous performances and good-natured rivalry, all in the name of supporting local causes.
For the past 13 years, the event has proudly backed Mission Beach Cassowaries Inc., raising funds for community awareness projects that protect the endangered cassowary and celebrate the natural beauty of the region.
This year’s milestone celebration brought together some of the original guests from the early Alice Springs days, who joined newcomers in cheering on the legendary air guitar and music mime competitions, both of which reached new comedic heights.
A signature feature of the rock quiz is the meticulous planning behind it. Chappy Chapman and his wife Angela are already dreaming up next year’s theme, designing fresh commemorative T-shirts and merchandise, crafting new quiz questions and plotting more ways to surprise and entertain.
Behind the scenes, the loyal “roustabouts” crew kept the day running smoothly handling everything from scorekeeping and raffle sales to equipment setup and preparing a shared meal for all participants.
“The day simply wouldn’t happen without the roustabouts,” Mr Chapman said. “They jump in wherever they’re needed and help create the relaxed and friendly atmosphere people love so much.”
The event also gives the local economy a welcome boost, with many attendees travelling from interstate and regional centres, filling local accommodation, dining venues and supporting Mission Beach businesses.
Since its beginnings in 2007, the annual rock quiz has raised almost $30,000 for charities.
Mission Beach Cassowaries spokeswoman Liz Gallie praised the couple’s extraordinary dedication. “Twenty years is an incredible achievement. It is much more than a fundraiser, it brings people together, creates lasting friendships, supports local causes and highlights everything people love about Mission Beach.”
Adding to the emotion of this year’s celebration, Mr Chapman announced that next year’s rock quiz will be the final one. “It has been quite a journey with so many splendid moments over the 20 years,” he said. “The music, charities, sponsors and roustabouts have all played an integral part in making Chappy’s Spiritual Music Quest Fest the phenomenon that it is. I would go as far as to say there is no other show quite like it in the world. Long live rock ’n’ roll.”
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