Walk run or cycle to the Mackay Harbour

The pathway and boardwalk begins at Vines Creek Bridge on Harbour Road and continues along to Ron Searle Drive.

Mayor Greg Williamson said council was committed to improving connectivity across the region.

“The Harbour Road shared path provides safe, continuous, all-abilities access linking Mackay Harbour to the City Centre by connecting to the existing Bluewater Trail,” Cr Williamson said.

“This jointly funded initiative with the state government will promote active communities, enhance liveability for residents and visitors and improve connectivity across the region,” he said.

“It will also provide the perfect training route for the Mackay Marina Run when it returns next year.

“We are pleased to officially open the shared pathway today.”

Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert said the Palaszczuk Government was proud to support the project, investing $2.5 million.

“The global economy has been hit hard by COVID-19, but Queensland’s strong health response to-date means our state can kick-start the economy quickly, and get on with the job of rolling out a $23 billion pipeline of road and transport upgrades – including new shared paths, right here in Mackay,” Mrs Gilbert said.

“This project is about Mackay Regional Council and the State Government delivering safer facilities for bike riders and walkers alike, as well as supporting jobs.

"We know that on average every dollar the Palaszczuk Government invests in bike-riding infrastructure returns nearly five dollars in economic benefit to Queenslanders through reduced traffic congestion and lower transport costs.

"On top of this, we see improved health outcomes, and that’s why we’re investing more than $15.5 million in funding to local governments to deliver new high-priority bike networks over the next two years.

“We know there’s a long road ahead when it comes to COVID-19, and that’s why we’re focussed on Queensland’s plan for economic recovery – a laser-like focus on infrastructure, jobs, industry and business.”

The pathway includes crossover points to ensure safe connection to the other side of Harbour Road.

The path also consists of concrete and elevated composite fibre boardwalks in areas where mangrove habitats have been preserved.

This project was funded by the Department of Transport and Main Roads, with contributions from Mackay Regional Council.