Mackay city and marina

Mackay is nestled on the banks of one of Australia’s only blue water rivers and offers a lovely mix of cafes, bars, shopping and plenty of space to enjoy the big, blue Pioneer River. 

The first settlers arrived to Mackay in 1862, however, the town’s earliest buildings were destroyed by a devastating cyclone in 1918. You can soak up some local history and learn more about the heritage-listed and art deco buildings from the 1930s (when Mackay was rebuilt) with a Heritage Walk hosted by the Mackay Visitor Information Centre volunteers. The 90-minute walks run between April and September but you are welcome to enjoy your own self-guided tour. Visit the Mackay Visitor Information Centre for a copy of the brochure. 

Top things to do: 

• Walk the Bluewater Trail, a 21km path that wraps around the City Centre and runs alongside the Pioneer River from Town Beach to the Botanic Gardens, encompassing some interesting sites along the way.
• The Bluewater Quay provides a great place to enjoy a barbecue or a drink from the waterfront restaurant and bar, and the Bluewater Lagoon is a free swimming park, with three pools and a water playground for the kids.
• Shop till you drop. Mackay’s City Centre has the perfect mix of funky cafes, classy restaurants and bars, family-friendly eateries and boutique stores. A modern library is a showcase feature along the main trip of Victoria Street. Caneland Central, Mackay’s largest shopping centre, is located nearby and offers over 100 speciality and service stores.  
• Soak up some arts and culture at Artspace Mackay, an exciting regional art gallery, as well as the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC), which are both located in Mackay’s Civic Centre Precinct.
• Take a trip to Queens Park, home to a large collection of beautiful orchids, and the main host of some great cultural events throughout the year. 
• The Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens will have you captivated with amazing natural wildlife and plants, not to mention the Art Gallery within the gardens. 
• Delight in stunning waterfront views, and a range of dining and entertainment experiences at the luxurious Mackay Marina. 
• The kids will love Mulherin Park, a great place to let off some energy, with barbecue facilities and a great playground boasting fun playing structures scattered throughout the huge park.