Media releases
Most recent
Start saving bucket loads this National Water Week
Residents are encouraged to take up water-saving habits this National Water Week (October 21-27) to save more of the Mackay region’s precious drinking water and cut household bills.
Published: 21 Oct 2024
Global celebration of food, music and culture coming to Queens Park
Global Grooves 2024 will be a feast for the senses complete with cultural dances, global music, vibrant traditional dress and mouthwatering food from across the world.
Published: 18 Oct 2024
Glenpark Street bridge maintenance works
Essential maintenance works on the Glenpark Street rail overpass bridge will begin on Monday, October 21.
Published: 17 Oct 2024
Three new exhibitions feature inspirational female First Nations artists
Artspace Mackay is proud to present three new solo exhibitions by a trio of exciting First Nations female contemporary artists.
Published: 11 Oct 2024
Community consultation on Muller Park playground opens soon
Muller Park playground, located at Boundary Road in Ooralea, is scheduled for renewal.
Published: 11 Oct 2024
Expo offers vital information for seniors across the region
The Mackay Seniors Expo has more than 65 exhibitors covering everything from lawn bowls to legal advice, film festivals to funeral plans and chemists to comedy players.
Published: 08 Oct 2024
Grab a shopping list and get your emergency kits ready
Do you have enough supplies to last you three days in the case of a disaster? Are you even sure what you might need to get you through?
Published: 08 Oct 2024
Older playground at Quota Park to be decommissioned
Council wishes to inform the community that the old Quota Park playground, which is currently fenced off, will be decommissioned in the coming weeks.
Published: 02 Oct 2024
Regional tourism on the agenda at national convention
More than 130 tourism advocates will gather in Mackay next week for Australia’s preeminent regional tourism convention.
Published: 30 Sep 2024
Apprentice and trainee program aims to strengthen workforce
Next year council will welcome six new employees through its doors as apprentice and trainees.
Published: 27 Sep 2024
Bumper bursaries offered for budding visual and performing artists
Each year council offers three exciting bursaries for visual and performing arts students, but this year the amount on offer has hit an all-time high.
Published: 26 Sep 2024
Stadium secures key sponsorship as council advocates for expansion
BB Print has thrown its support behind regional sport and entertainment with the signing of a major sponsorship deal.
Published: 25 Sep 2024
Measures to protect fragile East Point foreshore extended
A successful education and compliance campaign restricting vehicle access to foreshore areas north of East Point is being extended to further protect the environment.
Published: 25 Sep 2024
Council meeting livestream
Council meets this morning for its Ordinary Meeting. Livestreaming of the meeting is available below.
Published: 25 Sep 2024
New Corporate Plan to align with local government election cycle
Council has made some minor amendments to its Corporate Plan and the draft is now open for two weeks for public comment.
Published: 25 Sep 2024
Council calls Slade Point community meeting
Council is calling on residents of Slade Point to attend a community meeting on Tuesday, October 15.
Published: 24 Sep 2024
Christmas funding on offer for community events
Council is encouraging not-for-profit groups to make this Christmas a “cracker”!
Published: 23 Sep 2024
City Centre palm tree maintenance
Council staff will begin scheduled maintenance of palm trees in the Mackay City Centre next week.
Published: 20 Sep 2024
Ungerer Street closure for essential works
As part of works to upgrade the sewer rising main at Hamilton, Graves and Ungerer streets in North Mackay, Mackay Regional Council will be constructing a new sewer manhole in Ungerer Street.
Published: 18 Sep 2024
Get the kids out and about these school holidays
There will be no excuse for the kids to be bored these school holidays with a range of family-friendly, fun-filled activities on offer across the Mackay region.
Published: 09 Sep 2024
Treasure Trail to chart second voyage
Back by popular demand, council’s Discover Mackay Treasure Trail is getting ready to hoist sails this weekend.
Published: 09 Sep 2024
Bluewater Lagoon set to reopen for school holidays
The Bluewater Lagoon is set to reopen on Saturday, September 14, just in time for the September school holidays.
Published: 09 Sep 2024
Orchid Extravaganza promises to be a bloomin’ good time
Mackay’s Orchid Extravaganza is set to delight garden enthusiasts and plant lovers alike on Saturday, September 14.
Published: 09 Sep 2024
Mackay Regional Council on track to top last year’s blood drive effort
Mackay Regional Council is closing in on its blood donation record in the annual Australian Red Cross Lifeblood Local Government Blood Drive.
Published: 05 Sep 2024
More than 2000 children attend first shows in remediated MECC
The MECC Auditorium reopening celebration featured a terrible guest with terrible tusks, terrible claws and terrible teeth in his terrible jaws.
Published: 03 Sep 2024
Spring into action and join The Great Spring Clean Up
Roll up your sleeves and join The Great Spring Clean Up to help tidy up our beautiful region.
Published: 29 Aug 2024
Events planned to help community become more suicide aware
Council is partnering with local organisations to provide two potentially lifesaving events for R U OK? Day.
Published: 29 Aug 2024
John Breen Park set to Par-tay for Child Protection Week event
Three face painters, two glitter tattoo artists, three jumping castles, roaming entertainment from Sensory Circus, a petting zoo and a hair braider – now that’s a recipe for a party in a park!
Published: 29 Aug 2024
Council advocates for funding to help deliver key projects
A new local road connection to help ease congestion on Mackay-Bucasia Road is one priority project council is advocating funding for in the lead-up to the State and Federal elections.
Published: 28 Aug 2024
Council launches pet registration inspection program
Pet owners are being encouraged to ensure their cats and dogs are registered before council launches its pet registration inspection programs in October.
Published: 28 Aug 2024
BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival to feature Paralympics LIVE site
The highly anticipated 2024 BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival returns this weekend for two thrilling days on August 31 and September 1, promising a vibrant mix of cycling, community spirit and the 2024 Paris Paralympics LIVE site.
Published: 27 Aug 2024
Half pipe to be installed at Brewers Road Skatepark
Council has ordered a new half pipe for Brewers Road Skatepark in Sarina to replace the existing unit, which has become structurally unsafe due to vandalism and misuse.
Published: 22 Aug 2024
New fishway in Jolimont Creek will reel in big benefits
An exciting new project is set to bolster fish populations and enhance the overall health of the region’s aquatic ecosystem.
Published: 19 Aug 2024
Lithium battery causes fire at Materials Recovery Facility
Residents are being reminded not to put hazardous items in their wheelie bins, including any batteries, gas bottles, chemicals or flares.
Published: 16 Aug 2024
Next phase of Woodlands District Park unveiled
It’s time to dust off your bikes and scooters; construction on Woodlands Track in Andergrove is now complete.
Published: 14 Aug 2024
Young people head back to ballot box in second Young Mayors election
Thousands of young people will get a taste of democracy when they head back to the ballot box next week for the Mackay Youth Council election, building on the success of last year’s inaugural election.
Published: 14 Aug 2024
Gardens hosts magical Book Week celebration
Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens is already a magical place, but next Thursday (August 22) it will be transformed into a paradise for picture book heroes.
Published: 14 Aug 2024
Council expands grant offerings to support grassroot not-for-profits
Council has expanded its offering of Small Equipment Grants to allow greater flexibility for local not-for-profit organisations needing to purchase essential equipment.
Published: 14 Aug 2024
Disability Expo offers one-stop-shop for services, aids and support
The Mackay Disability Expo, coming up next Thursday (August 15), from 9am until noon, will offer those with an interest in the disability sector free access to more than 60 exhibitors.
Published: 08 Aug 2024
Mayor walks the plank in inaugural Gold Coast Mackay Yacht Race
Hoist the main sails, all hands on deck!
Published: 01 Aug 2024
Temporary closure of Sarina Museum
The Sarina Museum, located at The Field of Dreams Parklands (Railway Square) Bruce Highway, Sarina, is currently closed.
Published: 01 Aug 2024
Campaign highlights the everchanging nature of local libraries
Mackay Regional Council Libraries are using Library and Information Week (July 29 to August 4) to highlight the exciting transformations taking place at our local branches.
Published: 31 Jul 2024
Everything you need to know about Daly Bay Illuminate
Council is providing free buses to Daly Bay Illuminate this year to allow residents to access the showcase Mackay Festival of Arts event with greater ease.
Published: 30 Jul 2024
Grants help to make a vibrant, safe city
Two exciting grant opportunities are available in the Mackay City and Waterfront area to create safer and more engaging places.
Published: 30 Jul 2024
Grants available for business façade facelift
Businesses throughout the region can again apply for a helping hand to upgrade their building façades.
Published: 30 Jul 2024
Artspace Mackay reopens and welcomes mass coral artwork
Artspace Mackay’s 17-metre foyer wall will become the blank canvas of Townsville-based artist Lisa Ashcroft this week.
Published: 29 Jul 2024
Paralympic stars in Mackay to lead discussion on accessibility
Kelly Cartwright OAM is a gold medal-winning Paralympic athlete who has found success as a 100m sprinter, long jumper and more recently as a powerlifter.
Published: 26 Jul 2024
Live Site to offer ultimate Olympic viewing experience
A giant screen being craned into the Bluewater Quay this week will be a welcome sight to the local green and gold army.
Published: 25 Jul 2024
Matsuura to host a delegation of Mackay citizens
Mayor Greg Williamson said Mackay residents were treated to a welcome, and a level of hospitality, that was second to none whenever they visited Matsuura.
Published: 24 Jul 2024
Local students receive welcome kick-start to their careers
Five university students will get a head start in their careers as recipients of Mackay Regional Council’s 2024 Academic Bursary.
Published: 24 Jul 2024
Mackay Regional Council collaborates with Volunteering Queensland to Empower Youth
In an exciting initiative to foster youth engagement and community involvement, Mackay Regional Council has joined forces with Volunteering Queensland to fund the CHC24015 Certificate II in Active Volunteering program at Mackay State High School.
Published: 16 Jul 2024
Decadent brunch affair delivers deliciousness and jazz
Jacki Cooper is a jazz and big band singer who has performed around the world.
Published: 16 Jul 2024
Latest tech to promote Mackay, Isaac, Whitsunday region at QME
Take a virtual look into what Mackay has to offer at the Greater Whitsunday METS Innovation Lounge at QME 2024.
Published: 12 Jul 2024
Artspace Mackay reopens with exciting programs
The Artspace Mackay team have returned to our regional gallery and are excited to be rolling out workshops, programs and activities once more.
Published: 12 Jul 2024
Everything you need to know for Wisely Wine and Food Day 2024
Wisely Wine and Food Day 2024 will be bubbling with mouthwatering food, refreshing beverages, epic music and copious amounts of bubbles – 12,000 every minute, in fact.
Published: 11 Jul 2024
Students get opportunity to interview council leaders
Calling all high school students! Get ready to put your journalistic skills to the test.
Published: 08 Jul 2024
Festival-goers encouraged to “bring the sing” at mass karaoke event
There are two exciting events in the Mackay Festival of Arts where you can sing and dance like no one is watching.
Published: 08 Jul 2024
Seaforth splash pad temporarily out of action
Seaforth Esplanade’s splash pad will be closed this Thursday (July 4) from 8.30am to noon due to a power outage.
Published: 02 Jul 2024
Join the planting effort for National Tree Day
Residents are invited to roll up their sleeves and help plant trees as part of council’s National Tree Day event.
Published: 02 Jul 2024
Whitsunday Wealth Festival Hub offers evolving musical experiences
Four bands, four genres, delectable street cuisine, craft brews and pop-up activations will create an electric atmosphere at the Whitsunday Wealth Festival Hub.
Published: 02 Jul 2024
NAIDOC Week offers cultural celebration for whole community
Council is proud to be hosting a community flag raising ceremony for NAIDOC Week complete with cultural performances, guest speakers, Didgeridoo player and morning tea.
Published: 01 Jul 2024
New budget strikes balance to maintain services despite rising costs
Council's 2024-2025 budget will balance a rates increase in line with CPI with no reduction in services in a climate of escalating costs.
Published: 26 Jun 2024
Signature projects funding to boost liveability
Signature projects aimed at improving the liveability of the region will receive a boost as part of council’s 2024-2025 Budget.
Published: 25 Jun 2024
Maintaining and renewing ageing assets key part of capital program
Council's new budget includes a capital spend of more than $130 million, including investment in key pieces of new infrastructure, as well as maintain and renewing ageing assets.
Published: 25 Jun 2024
Register your pet in June to save
Time is running out to take advantage of the pet registration discount period.
Published: 21 Jun 2024
Funding approved for innovative NAIDOC exhibition works
Council has approved a $6760 grant to support a local Indigenous artist who creates digital artworks using sand art, drone technology and digital editing software.
Published: 19 Jun 2024
Festival kicks off with fine wine, laughs and mysterious stories
Merrick Watts has cracked the code when it comes to ensuring his audiences have a great time.
Published: 18 Jun 2024
Get the kids outdoors these school holidays
Enjoy the region’s beautiful sunny winter days these school holidays and get the kids outdoors for FREE holiday fun with Strolling Stories at the Seaforth Esplanade and Sarina Field of Dreams, outdoor board games at the Botanic Gardens and kids' activities along the water’s edge at River Wharves.
Make sure to check out all the activities and follow the Facebook pages of the facilities for more information and updates.
Published: 17 Jun 2024
Residents asked to help council shape library services
Mackay Regional Council Libraries are offering residents the chance to win two $250 EFTPOS gift vouchers simply by completing a 10-minute survey.
Published: 17 Jun 2024
Paradise and Webberley streets intersection upgrade
Works on the Paradise and Webberley streets intersection in West Mackay have progressed to stage two.
Published: 17 Jun 2024
City Centre palm tree maintenance
Council staff will begin scheduled maintenance of palm trees in the Mackay City Centre next week.
Published: 14 Jun 2024
The “purrfect” Mackay Show display
Council's Mackay Show display will have something for the whole family this year - even your family’s furry friend.
Published: 11 Jun 2024
Volunteer Expo offers something for everyone
The 2024 Mackay Volunteer Expo proves that volunteering offers “something for everyone”.
Published: 28 May 2024
There’s No Excuse for Abuse campaign launched
An increasing trend of incidents involving verbal and physical threats against its staff has prompted Mackay Regional Council to act.
Published: 24 May 2024
$15M Announced for Northern Beaches Community Hub
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox today announced a $15m funding boost to kickstart the Northern Beaches Community Hub stage 1B.
Published: 15 May 2024
Local charity event hits high note at the MECC
The Mackay Mayor’s Charity Ball hit a high note on Saturday night, with almost 400 Ball-goers attending the annual event.
Published: 23 May 2024
Council stands united against domestic violence
“Not now, not ever” – this is the very clear pledge taken today by council’s elected members.
Published: 22 May 2024
High performance swim camps choose Mackay ARC
The Mackay Aquatic Recreation Complex is playing host to some of Australia’s top Olympic swimming hopefuls, with huge economic benefits for our region.
Published: 21 May 2024
Enjoy a day in the gardens and celebrate all things botanic
To celebrate Botanic Gardens Day, Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens is hosting a special community event to celebrate all things botanic.
Published: 17 May 2024
Sarina to light candles for Domestic Violence victims
Sarina Neighbourhood Centre is hosting a special candle lighting ceremony to remember those who have lost their lives to domestic and family violence.
Published: 14 May 2024
Funding granted to help young Indigenous drivers
Council has approved a $7500 Community Grant to help fund a program aimed at reducing incidents of road crashes involving Indigenous youth.
Published: 10 May 2024
Council recruits clever canines to sniff out leaks
In a first for the region, council will recruit the help of two very clever canines to detect water leaks.
Published: 09 May 2024
Festival program promises to push boundaries and create memories
About thirty events will combine to make the 2024 Mackay Festival of Arts a dynamic showcase of art, culture, cuisine and entertainment.
Published: 30 Apr 2024
Prime Minister officially opens Riverside Revitalisation Project
Mackay's Riverside Revitalisation Project has Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s seal of approval.
Published: 22 Apr 2024
Anzac Day services
There will be 25 Anzac Day services held across the region this Thursday, April 25.
Published: 22 Apr 2024
Bluewater Lagoon to close in late-April for relining works
The Bluewater Lagoon will close from Monday, April 29, until early September 2024 for significant upgrade work.
Published: 17 Apr 2024
Mayor’s Charity Ball to celebrate ‘Iconic Mackay’
The theme for the 2024 Mayor’s Charity Ball to be held early next month is “Iconic Mackay”.
Published: 15 Apr 2024
Finch Hatton MTB Trails officially open with family fun day
The Finch Hatton Mountain Bike Trails will be officially opened with a fun day for the whole community.
Published: 15 Apr 2024
Demolition of 8 River Street building deemed best way forward
A building at 8 River Street, earmarked for a refurbished food and beverage outlet, will be demolished.
Published: 05 Apr 2024
Woodlands District Park’s next phase is on track
The next phase of the exciting Woodlands District Park project in Andergrove is about to begin.
Published: 03 Apr 2024
One man’s trash is another man’s treasure
Paying it forward is now easier than ever with Containers for Change Container Exchange Points being installed on public bins around the region.
Published: 03 Apr 2024
Wisely Wine and Food Day steps up to fill art market hiatus
With Artspace Mackay’s annual Rock, Paper, Scissors Art and Design Market taking a hiatus in 2024, Wisely Wine and Food Day is set to welcome an influx of creative exhibitors.
Published: 02 Apr 2024
Easter closures for council facilities
Mackay Regional Council would like to advise residents of the following council facility closures over the Easter weekend.
Published: 25 Mar 2024
Egg-citing school holiday activities for the kids this Easter
There’s something for everyone these Easter school holidays across the region.
Younger kids will enjoy loads of art and craft, mini workshops, an interactive strolling story winding through the botanic gardens as well as facepainting and fun activities at River Wharves and in the city for April’s City Heart Friday.
No excuse for the older kids not to get out of the house with the library team hitting the road with a roadshow just for teens, free yoga sessions, a mini terrarium workshop and a range of activities at the Sarina Youth Centre including baking and making wearable art!
Make sure to check out all the activities and follow the Facebook pages of the facilities for more information and updates.
Published: 20 Mar 2024
BB Print Stadium Mackay lighting upgrades exceed expectations
The lighting component of the Stadium Mackay refurbishment project is now complete and will offer crowds an enhanced viewing experience.
Published: 19 Mar 2024
MECC auditorium closure extended
The MECC has extended its closure of the Auditorium, North Foyer and Lynette Denny Space.
Published: 18 Mar 2024
Council encourages residents to park safe to protect young riders
Council is encouraging residents to be mindful of an influx of riders on the roads and bike paths this Friday (March 22).
Published: 20 Mar 2024
City Centre palm tree maintenance
Council staff will begin scheduled maintenance of palm trees in the Mackay City Centre next week.
Published: 12 Mar 2024
Grey Nomads love Sarina Sugar Shed
Sarina Sugar Shed has been named as the best tour experience in Australia at the Grey Nomad Awards.
Published: 11 Mar 2024
Explore the Pioneer River from city pontoon
Our beautiful blue water river is now more accessible than ever with the opening of the Pioneer River Floating Pontoon.
Published: 06 Mar 2024
Council encourages residents to get to know their neighbours
Neighbour Day began in Melbourne in 2003 after the remains of an elderly woman were found inside her suburban home, more than two years after her death.
Published: 05 Mar 2024
Council tops the charts for donating top drop
Council employees have proven that serving the community runs in their veins.
Published: 28 Feb 2024
Taste test our trails from this weekend
Mackay Regional Council is thrilled to announce that more than half the trails at Finch Hatton MTB will be ready to ride this Saturday (February 24).
Published: 23 Feb 2024
Willetts Road playground to receive facelift
Council will be undertaking an upgrade to the Willetts Road playground in North Mackay.
Published: 21 Feb 2024
Event showcases local creative achievements
Council is hosting a Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) Showcase to highlight some of the amazing talent, vision and creativity we have in our region.
Published: 21 Feb 2024
Works to improve accessibility to bus stops
Mackay bus stops will become more accessible with planned improvement works.
Published: 15 Feb 2024
BMA Kidspace coming to a community near you
Council is offering two great programs for young people to explore their love of art.
Published: 12 Feb 2024
MECC provides update on auditorium closure
The MECC now has a plan of action for works and timeframes required to allow the re-opening of its auditorium, North Foyer, and Lynette Denny Space.
Published: 09 Feb 2024
Maintenance work scheduled at two popular Mackay playgrounds
Contractors will be carrying out maintenance work at two popular playgrounds in Mackay later this month.
Published: 08 Feb 2024
QME opportunities highlighted at business morning tea
The opportunities available for Mackay’s Mining Equipment, Technology and Services (METS) and commercial businesses at Queensland Mining Expo (QME) 2024 were highlighted at a business morning tea today (Tuesday, February 6).
Published: 06 Feb 2024
Investment in Mackay region remains strong
The Mackay region’s economy continues to indicate strong growth, with a significant uptick in demand of development applications recorded recently.
Published: 01 Feb 2024
Floating pontoon construction nears completion
The final piece of the new Pioneer River floating pontoon – a 40 metre gangway – will be lifted into place next week.
Published: 30 Jan 2024
Milton Street road maintenance closes southbound lanes
The southbound lane of Milton Street, between Victoria and Gordon streets, will be closed to traffic for night works on Monday, February 5.
Published: 30 Jan 2024
Botanic Gardens footpath works
Footpath upgrade works are scheduled to take place in the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens from Wednesday, January 31, weather permitting.
Published: 30 Jan 2024
Community champions recognised on Australia Day
Peter Reedman is a pillar of the community whose selfless contributions have created a resurgence in junior rugby union in the Mackay region.
Published: 25 Jan 2024
Tender awarded for stage 1A of Northern Beaches Community Hub
One of council’s signature projects, the Northern Beaches Community Hub, will begin taking shape onsite.
Published: 25 Jan 2024
Cancellations and closures in the region
Due to the wet weather around the region as a result of Tropical Cyclone Kirrily, a number of our council supported Aussie Day events have had to be cancelled or postponed.
Published: 25 Jan 2024
Sport and Rec Expo countdown has begun
Mackay's biggest sport and recreation sign-on event is only days away.
Published: 24 Jan 2024
Australia Day Awards Gala cancelled
Mackay Regional Council has made the difficult decision to cancel tomorrow night’s Australia Day Awards Gala.
Published: 24 Jan 2024
Council kicks-starts 2024 by welcoming fresh talent through its doors
Council welcomed five new employees through its doors this morning as part of the Graduate Program.
Published: 22 Jan 2024
Local tourist attraction hits the spot for Grey Nomads
Sarina Sugar Shed is celebrating today after recently being named as a two-time finalist in the national Grey Nomad Awards.
Published: 22 Jan 2024
Academic bursaries set to open doors for local university students
Five lucky university students will have the opportunity to kick start their careers through the academic bursary program when applications open today.
Published: 19 Jan 2024
MECC auditorium to remain closed for extended period
THE MECC’s auditorium, North Foyer and Lynette Denny Space will remain closed for an extended period.
Published: 16 Jan 2024
Arts funding applications closing soon
Applications for round three of Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) grants, worth about $80,000, close next Wednesday, January 24.
Published: 16 Jan 2024
Clean up around your home to stop the spread
The wet season is upon us and residents are being urged to tidy up the areas around their homes.
Published: 16 Jan 2024
Online Services Outage
Published: 15 Jan 2024
Mackay to host Australian Regional Tourism Convention
Australian Regional Tourism is pleased to announce that Mackay, Queensland will be host to the 2024 Australian Regional Tourism Convention to be held 9 – 11 October 2024. This remarkable achievement is testament to the council's dedication to advancing regional tourism, fostering economic growth, and enhancing the region’s tourism industry.
Published: 10 Jan 2024
Congratulations to our Australia Day Awards nominees
Congratulations to the outstanding nominees for the 2024 Australia Day Awards!
Your remarkable achievements and contributions have not only made a lasting impact on our communities but also exemplify the true essence of Australia.
Your dedication to excellence, service and leadership serves as an inspiration to us all.
Best of luck to each nominee – your recognition is well-deserved and we are proud to have you representing our region!
Published: 08 Jan 2024