Join the party to support child protection and wellbeing

Published on 03 September 2026

Hundreds of families are expected to join one of the biggest parties of the year – all while committing to creating a safer community for our children.

Party in the Park returns next Wednesday, September 9 at Queens Park and will once again provide a relaxed environment for parents and carers to learn about support services in the region.

Mayor Greg Williamson said this year’s theme fits perfectly with the core idea of Party in the Park.

“This year is about turning conversations into actions and that’s exactly what happens at Party in the Park,” Mayor Williamson said.

“People can chat to service providers and even other families in an environment that is relaxed and casual and then make contact with groups that can help them navigate the journey of parenting,” he said.

“It can be very daunting knowing where to go for help, or if there is anyone that can help. The great news is that there are dozens of passionate groups out there that can help make a difference.”

Among the providers at this year’s event are the Mackay Women’s Services and ‘Act for Kids’.

Tina Schulz from Act for Kids said they’re proud to continue their involvement with this important community event.

“Any time we can put on something like this where people can come together and connect is so important,” Ms Schulz said.

“What the research tells us is that feeling loved and having a sense of belonging are key to a child’s wellbeing, so giving parents and carers a chance to get support to do this is crucial,” she said.

“Party in the Park is one way we can reframe the conversation to one of hope by looking at child safety from the perspective of what we can do to help children thrive.”

Belinda Berg from Mackay Women’s Services said Party in the Park was an important event for service providers to stay connected.

“It’s about networking between our organisations, knowing what’s out there and referral channels. It can be challenging to navigate so this can really help us all better support people when they do ask for help,” Ms Berg said.

“It also gives us the opportunity to talk to people about what a child-safe community looks like and giving families information about what their rights and entitlements are around child protection.”

Mayor Greg Williamson said the fun-filled morning is completely free to attend, with plenty of attractions to keep children and parents entertained.

“For the kids there’s lots of free activities – face painting, jumping castles, glitter tattoos, hair braiding and a petting zoo,” he said.

“There’s also plenty for the adults, with free coffee and sausage sizzle.

“Party in the Park event has been specifically coordinated by our Community Programs team and the Mackay Family Support Alliance to make our community a safe, supportive environment to raise children.”

Party in the Park will be held at Queens Park on Wednesday, September 9 from 9am - 11.30am