Everything you need to know for Wisely Wine and Food Day

Published: 10 Jul 2023

This Saturday (July 15) will be the biggest free, all-ages day of the Mackay region social calendar.

With seven high profile acts, about 30 food vendors, 16 market stalls, dance performances and family amusements, there will be something for everyone at the Wisely Wine and Food Day.

The event runs from 10.30am to 5.30pm at Queens Park.

Headlined by ARIA Song of the Year winner Conrad Sewell, the BB Print main stage will feature a stella line-up of bands and singers.

The roster will include rock/reggae band Silky Fuzz, party band The Feels, high-energy trio G Force Music, indie pop songstress KARLOU (Karrie Hayward), blues and folk artist Alex Kosenko and smooth songstress Ruby Sue.

Mayor Greg Williamson said it was tremendous to have a performer of a calibre of Conrad Sewell headlining the event.

“Conrad Sewell has opened arenas around the world for the likes of Ed Sheeran and Maroon 5, and his songs are regular chart toppers,” Mayor Williamson said.

“His soulful vocals will be a perfect fit for the relaxed atmosphere of the Wisely Wine and Food Day,” he said.

Mayor Williamson said festival goers would likely notice a few changes to the layout on the day.

“The things that people want every year are great views of the main stage, room to move and manageable lines for food and drink,” he said.

“Obviously, when you are talking tens of thousands of people, nothing is easy, but this year the festivals team have more than 30 food vendors signed up to attend and have changed the event layout to provide more room for seating and better views of the stages.

“There will also be more shade, plenty of amusements for the kids, a paint and sip running multiple sessions throughout the day and the amazing Fierce Creative Dance Stage filled with some wonderful dance demonstrations.”

Festivals and Events Coordinator Sarah Porter said for those wanting to take their experience to the next level, the Mingle Marquee was the place to be.

“Mingle Events Co have created a VIP area for us at the event which will be comfortable, stylish and gourmet,” Ms Porter said.

“The area will have exclusive views of the main stage and private access to a delicious spread of delicacies by the catering team at Social, Fresh and Local,” she said.

“There’s also a private bar; lots of chic seating options, like luxury lounges; complimentary touch ups at the beauty station and roving appetisers.

“Tickets for the VIP area are close to being exhausted, so I'd advise getting in quickly to avoid disappointment.”

Ms Porter had a few other tips to ensure attendees had the best day.

“While shade umbrellas and gazebos aren’t allowed into the venue, we would definitely recommend bringing hats, sunscreen and maybe a bit of mosquito spray for late in the afternoon,” she said.

“You can also bring picnic blankets and chairs, but please be mindful of those around you. We are also allowing people to bring in their own food that is not in commercial packaging.”

For more information on Wisely Wine and Food Day and updates ahead of the day, make sure you follow Mackay Festivals on Facebook or head to themecc.com.au/festivals

While last minute changes can occur, the current stage line-up and food vendor list is as follows:

BB Print Main Stage

  • 11am - Ruby Sue
  • 11.55am - Alex Kosenko
  • 12.50pm - Karlou
  • 1.45pm - G-Force
  • 2.40pm - The Feels
  • 3.35pm - Silky Fuzz
  • 4.40pm - Conrad Sewell

Fierce Creative Dance Stage 

  • 11.45am - Embellish Bellydance Mackay
  • 12.40am - Claddagh School of Irish Dance
  • 1.35pm - Dance Express
  • 2.30pm - Dance Fit with Elena
  • 3.25pm - Dance Express
  • 4.25pm - Mackay Sugar City Rock n Roll

Food vendors

  • Chills Diner
  • Ma’s Pizza Kitchen
  • Cannoli Siciliani
  • Ziffy’s
  • Dumpling Hut Mackay
  • Masala Indian Cuisine
  • Rubie Rush
  • Kusina
  • Woodfire 600
  • Let’z Waffle
  • Thai AuthenChick 328
  • Mini melts
  • Shore Fresh Seafoods
  • Lexi Floss
  • Amanda’s Dumpling
  • Crave Coffee Co
  • Sweet Cakes -Dutch Poffertjes
  • Latoya Latimer Catering
  • Not Only Cannoli
  • Twisted tatas
  • Bistro Bites
  • Cream and Bean
  • Plattered Up
  • Nepali Food
  • Taste of New Orleans
  • Let’s Jump
  • Eatstreet no.8
  • Tasty Twister
  • The Rib Crib
  • Apulia woodfire
  • Marshalls Catering
  • Fudge-Tastic by Michelle

Paint and Sip Sessions (lasting 60 minutes) will be held at 11am, 12.30pm, 2pm and 3.30pm.

Wine and Food Program page 1Wine and Food Program page 2