WELCOME TO MACKAY​



 

Situated on latitude 210, longitude 1480, Mackay is a vibrant exciting tropical city, booming from the richness of sugar and mining. Mackay was settled in 1862, named after one Captain John Mackay who discovered the valley of the Pioneer River.

Early pioneers brought sugar cane to the region and began an industry that has become one of Australia's largest. Within a decade of settlement, Mackay became Queensland's largest sugar producing area and still is! Mackay grew with its industries. As sugar boomed so did the frontier town.

 

The climate and environment of the Mackay area soon attracted families and today more than 75,000 people live in Mackay. More and more "Southerners" are drawn by the promise of sunshine, warmth and relaxed family living.

 

Mackay's close proximity to the Great Barrier Reef and some of the world's most prized rainforests make it a holiday destination for many thousands of visitors.

Visitors seeking accommodation in Mackay will become captivated by the amount of natural attractions and man-made spectacles, historical buildings and sites, as well as the abundance of activities this town has to offer! It combines an array of city and country style attractions that are sure to knock your socks off! If you’re after an outback hinterland adventure, head to historic bush-towns like Nebo or Clermont to discover open cut mines and ancient landscapes, or bushwalk through one of our spectacular National Parks! If a cityscape is more your style, enjoy Mackay’s balmy tropical nights by dining alfresco at the Marina, stroll through Mackay and the Botanic Gardens or simply relax by the Bluewater Lagoon!

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