Waterfront Action Plan moves to activation phase
Published on 23 February 2026
The multi-stage clean-up of Mackay's Riverfront has moved into a new phase with an exciting initiative aimed at activating the renewed space.
The ongoing action plan has achieved remarkable success in making the area safe and attractive for visitors to use and enjoy.
The next step is the introduction of a fee-free program to bring food trucks, fitness groups, buskers, recreational providers and community groups to this space.
Mayor Greg Williamson said council would activate the area and complete the River Wharves transformation by giving residents and visitors plenty of reasons to use the space.
“We’ve already seen some tremendous activity down there with some local food trucks collaborating to really bring the place to life,” Mayor Williamson said.
“There is a baker that has been selling sourdough and pastries on Saturdays, and that has grown to include a smoothie van and a coffee van,” he said.
“And they’re not alone – there’s a Filipino street food van that’s joining forces with lots of other food trucks to activate the space weekly too.
“It’s nothing for there to be 50 to 100 people there chatting and eating on the weekend.
“It fantastic to see these businesses collaborating so successfully and the results give us something amazing to build on.
“Council is not only backing these food vendors by offering free bookings – we want to build the atmosphere.
“That’s why we are now putting the call out to everyone from buskers and fitness groups to community groups looking to hold events and activities – this is your space and we love that it has been returned to the community.”
If you would like to trade from this prime riverfront location, or you would like to book a time for your fitness class, community group or recreational activity, head to mackaywaterfront.com.au/what-to-do/river_wharves2 or, if you need more information, email mackaywaterfront@mackay.qld.gov.au
Static vending permit fees and park booking fees will be waived for all River Wharves bookings until June 30, 2026. Bookings for fitness and recreational activities are also available for the Bluewater Quay.
Image: On Saturday mornings, River Wharves has been a hive of activity thanks to the collaboration of local vendors, and council is looking to attract more food vendors and activities with a fee-free booking trial. (Image: Boat Ramp Bakehouse)