Disaster Ready Saturday doubled to include Sarina 

Published on 30 September 2025

Cyclones, bushfires, floods "“ disasters can strike at any time.That's why council is inviting residents to get prepared at this year's Disaster Ready Saturday, now bigger than ever with a second event in Sarina.

The Mackay event will be held in Caneland Central, outside of Peter Alexander, from 9am to 1pm on Saturday, October 11.

The new Sarina event will be held at Sarina Beach Shopping Centre, outside of IGA, from 9am to 1pm on Saturday, October 18.

At both events residents will be able to speak to a diverse range of emergency experts and agencies, pick up a free emergency information bag and go into the draw to win a Honda generator worth more than $2300 thanks to Mackay Outdoor Power Centre.

Chair of the Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) Mayor Greg Williamson said this was the first time Disaster Ready Saturday would be held in Sarina.

“These events are all about giving residents the opportunity to speak directly with council’s Emergency Management Team and members of the LDMG, gather vital preparedness tips and learn how to protect their families and homes,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Over the last decade, Mackay has faced multiple natural disasters – from Cyclone Debbie in 2017 to severe flooding and bushfires in more recent years,” he said.

“These events remind us that being prepared isn’t optional – it’s essential.

“That means knowing when to go, where to go, what to take and how to stay informed.

“Disaster Ready Saturday is a great opportunity to get informed, learn how to pack an emergency kit and take those first steps towards preparedness.”

Both events are free and will have a host of disaster management organisations in attendance as well as Jay and Dave from Triple M broadcasting live.

The Mackay event will include Maritime Safety Queensland, State Emergency Service, Queensland Fire Department, Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Police Service, Sunwater, Australian Red Cross, Ergon Energy, NBN Co and representatives from council’s Emergency Management Team and Flood Modelling Team.

The Sarina Event will have the State Emergency Service, Queensland Fire Department, Queensland Police Service, Queensland Ambulance Service, Ergon Energy, Rural Fire Service and representatives from council’s Emergency Management Team.

For more information on becoming better prepared in an emergency, residents are encouraged to visit council’s Emergency Dashboard - disaster.mackay.qld.gov.au