Sarina Sugar Shed celebrates two decades
Published on 14 August 2026
In 2006 the Sarina Sugar Shed welcomed its first visitor and, like a fine barrel-aged rum, it’s only getting better with age.
Countless sweet memories later, the Sarina Sugar Shed team are preparing to celebrate a milestone worth raising a glass to and are inviting residents and visitors to celebrate 20 years of this iconic facility.
The Sarina Sugar Shed 20th Anniversary Celebration will be held on Saturday, September 12, 2026, from 10am to 3pm, with free entry for all visitors.
Over the past two decades, the Sarina Sugar Shed has welcomed guests from around the world, sharing the story of sugarcane production while creating unique products that highlight local innovation and craftsmanship.
Mayor Greg Williamson said the anniversary was an opportunity to recognise the people and partnerships that had helped the attraction become one of North Queensland's most distinctive tourism experiences.
"Over the past 20 years, the Sarina Sugar Shed has grown from a unique concept into a much-loved regional attraction that proudly showcases our sugar industry, local produce and community spirit," Mayor Williamson said.
"This celebration is an opportunity to thank our visitors, volunteers, industry partners and community members who have supported us throughout our journey,” he said.
"We invite everyone to come along and celebrate this tremendous milestone with us."
Visitors will be able to take a walk down memory lane through a special historical display featuring archival photographs, video footage and stories highlighting the Sugar Shed's development over the past 20 years.
The Sugarcane Patch will feature industry representatives from CANEGROWERS and Wilmar, offering insights into the past, present and future of the sugar industry.
Guests can also enjoy interactive displays, hands-on experiences and virtual reality activities that explore the role sugarcane continues to play across the Mackay region.
Inside the Sugar Shed, visitors can follow the production process from cane to final product and enjoy tasting freshly crushed sugarcane juice straight from the press.
The anniversary celebration will showcase the Sugar Shed's range of handcrafted products, with tastings of award-winning liqueurs, condiments, sauces and jams available throughout the day.
Families can enjoy freshly spun fairy floss, sugar-themed activities and train rides, while visitors can pre-order grazing boxes and relax in the picturesque surroundings of the Field of Dreams precinct.
A live broadcast from HIT FM will entertain guests throughout the morning, followed by live acoustic music in the afternoon.
Those attending are encouraged to reserve a timeslot to help spread crowds out throughout the day and ensure access to key areas of the facility.
Exclusive anniversary releases
Mayor Greg Williamson said rum enthusiasts would have the opportunity to purchase a range of limited-edition 20th Anniversary spirits, available exclusively in-store on the day.
“The team have been very busy working towards this milestone and have distilled some very special, limited-edition offerings,” he said.
The commemorative collection includes:
- Mango Rum
- Sugar Shed Rum
- Spiced Cane Spirit
- Five-year Barrel Aged Sugar Shed Rum.
Produced in strictly limited quantities, the releases celebrate two decades of innovation and craftsmanship at the Sarina Sugar Shed.
Visitors will also be able to purchase anniversary merchandise and gifts, including custom T-shirts, sweet treats, miniature oak barrels, premium hampers and exclusive souvenirs.
Adding to the excitement is the Sarina Sugar Shed Golden Ticket Giveaway.
Hidden inside selected bottles and jars are Golden Tickets that could be redeemed for exclusive Sarina Sugar Shed prizes at the anniversary celebration.
Visitors are encouraged to keep an eye out for winning tickets and bring their winning product along to the event to claim their prize.
The Sarina Sugar Shed's 20th Anniversary Celebration promises to be a memorable day celebrating the stories, people, flavours and sugarcane industry that have shaped the attraction over the past two decades.