Mackay City Guide
A complete accommodation and tour guide in Mackay
Mackay is located midway between Brisbane and Cairns, the Region coastline stretches 200 km north from St Lawrence to Laguna Whitsundays, and inland to the town of Clermont. There’s heaps to see and do in Mackay, so set aside a few days to soak up the relaxed, tropical lifestyle. Mackay is full of interesting shopping, dining and entertainment options, colourful markets and a lively arts scene.
Recommended Tour
The Great Barrier Reef really shows off its magic during November when for about a week after the full moon, the coral spawn. Tour operators even offer special dives for those who wish to checkout the phenomenon up close.
Artspace Mackay is the city’s award winning regional art gallery and museum. Its diversity offers the chance to experience the works of local artists and learn about the region’s heritage past. View major art exhibitions, or just relax in the gourmet cafe, Foodspace.
Discover the newly established Mackay Region Botanical Gardens – observe the fascinating and rare flora of the Central Queensland Coast bio-region, wander through its cultural precincts and learn about local history and exciting projects on the horizon for the gardens. The South Sea Islander Meeting House is also located within the scenic lagoon area. Specialist botanic tours are also available with the Curator and Garden Friends on request. Guided walks are available for 1 to 100 visitors and run on demand.
What’s On Mackay
Wintermoon Festival The Wintermoon Festival began in 1996 as a tiny local event with locals as entertainers and audience. Word has spread about the beautiful location, and family-friendly atmosphere. Annual Event: Fri 1 May - Mon 4 May 2009.
Entertainers, visitors and volunteers have been journeying from all over the country to entertain and participate.
River Rock to Mountain Top Community Festival Less than an hour's drive west of Mackay puts you in the heart of the picturesque Pioneer Valley and Eungella. Celebrate with locals as they enjoy four days of fun, sport, art, history, markets, music and theatre at the River Rock to Mountain Top Community Festival. Highlights include the Community Lantern parade, Tag-along Charity Horse Ride, Bush Carnival, Mother's Day Luncheons, Golf and Bowls. Annual Event: Fri 8 May - Sun 10 May 2009.
River to Reef Festival Enjoy festivities galore alongside the eastern end of Mackay’s sparkling blue river! Come and celebrate all that is unique to our tropical lifestyle. An annual event: Sun 4 Oct 2009. Date and location yet to be confirmed.
Wining And Dining In Mackay
Locals and visitors alike love the impressive Mackay Marina Village. Within five minutes drive north of the city centre – a meal or drinks at one of a growing number of restaurants lining the marina esplanade is a must for anyone visiting the city. Dine alfresco to soak up the sunshine, whilst enjoying superb views across the marina and nearby islands. Standing sentinel on the marina’s foreshore is a memento of Mackay’s maritime history – a Victorian lighthouse built in 1885 and now open for guided tours.
Things To Do In Mackay At No Cost
Eungella National Park
Eungella National Park is recognised as Australia’s longest continual stretch of sub tropical rainforest. Eungella is leisurely hours drive west of Mackay, passing through the scenic Pioneer Valley, carpeted by lush cane fields and dotted with quaint country townships. A must visit for anyone to the region, it makes for a perfect day trip or longer.
