A week in Mackay
We spent a week in Mackay, catching up with Cameron’s mum and dad, who flew up from chilly Melbourne in search of sunshine, and found it…mostly. It was a relaxed week of catching up, with warm weather and some low-key exploring.
Mackay’s a curious city—very spread out, with lots of big roads and not always the most…um…attentive drivers. It leans more industrial than charming, and you’ll do a bit of driving to get anywhere. That said, there were still a few gems that made the visit memorable.
The Art Gallery impressed us with its thoughtful exhibitions, and we were lucky to arrive during the Mackay Festival, which came with a surprise dose of whimsy: giant inflatable frogs lounging around the town centre. They were easily the most chilled-out locals we met.
We also enjoyed a delicious dinner at the Shamrock Hotel, solid pub fare with excellent service and zero frogs.
We stopped by the Sarina Sugar Shed, and we’re glad we did. It’s a small but fascinating glimpse into the sugar industry, accompanied by a great tour that guides you through the process from cane to crystal. The guides were full of knowledge (and puns), and there were plenty of tasty samples to keep things sweet. A fun and informative morning that left us just a little bit more appreciative of our sugar fix.
We stumbled across the Mackay Orchid House, tucked inside the Queen’s Park Gardens. It’s a small space but beautifully curated, with an incredible display of colourful and rare orchids. The scent hits you as you step inside, and even if you’re not usually into flowers, it’s hard not to be impressed. Quiet, free, and unexpectedly lovely, it ended up being one of our favourite stops in Mackay.
We wandered through Fifth Lane in Mackay’s city centre and were surprised by the burst of colour and creativity. The street art here is bold and vibrant, turning a plain laneway into an open-air gallery. It’s an excellent spot for a wander and a few snaps, with murals that range from abstract to playful—definitely one of Mackay’s more unexpected highlights.
It was lovely having a week with family, and while Mackay might not have stolen our hearts, the time together more than made up for it. After waving Mum and Dad off at the airport (back to “sunny” Melbourne), we pointed the van west and headed for the hills—Eungella National Park was calling.
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Mackay
Mackay is a coastal city in Queensland, known for its sugar industry and proximity to the Great Barrier Reef.
How to Get There
Mackay is accessible via the Bruce Highway, approximately 970 km north of Brisbane.
What to See, Tours and Activities:
Mackay Art Gallery: Features contemporary exhibitions and local artworks.
Mackay Festival: An annual event showcasing local culture, including street art and performances.
Shamrock Hotel: A historic pub offering classic Australian cuisine.
Sarinas Sugar Shed: A working sugar mill with interactive tours and tastings.
Mackay Orchid House: Located in Queens Park, displaying a variety of orchids.
Fifth Lane Street Art: A laneway transformed into an open-air gallery with vibrant murals.
When to Visit
The best time to visit Mackay is during the dry season, from May to October, when the weather is cooler and less humid.
Final Thoughts
Mackay may not have been love at first sight, but it certainly grew on us. The blend of family time, unexpected discoveries, and local charm made for a memorable week. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best experiences come from the unplanned moments.
What’s Nearby
Before Mackay, we took a detour through St Lawrence, where we lent a hand to fellow travellers in need. From there, we headed to the Pinnacle Family Hotel, a quaint spot nestled in the Pioneer Valley, before venturing into the lush landscapes of Hatton Finch National Park.
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