Back to the Hibiscus Coast

The booming city of Mackay is situated on the Pioneer River and is the largest habitation on the Hibiscus Coast. Known as the sugar capital of Australia, Mackay produces one‐third of Australia’s sugar harvest.

Founded as a port, for the export of Wool and Tallow, Captain John Mackay was the first pastoralist in the district and in 1864, stared a stock run at Greenmount, 20 kilometres inland. As the pastoral leases expanded, the township of Mackay with wharves, docks, warehouses, hotels, shops, houses, banks and a newspaper quickly sprang up. Sugar was first planted in 1865 and by the mid 1880,s thirty cane crushing mills were a feature the small town. Until 1906, South Sea Islanders were the stable work force in the sugar industry and today, Mackay’s vibrant diversity reflects the advent of these and the many European nationalities who worked in this fledging industry.

The Mackay region is home to the largest and the most valuable coal seam in Australia and 30 new mines have opened over the last 5 years adding to the prosperity of the bustling city.

Mackay’s modern city also features many lovingly restored heritage listed buildings and the Artspace Edifice houses an Art Gallery and Museum. You can also enjoy a free self walk tour of the city with an informative brochure available from the Mackay Visitors Information Centre.

The Mackay Marina is now home to a multimillion dollar complex boasting luxury apartments, townhouses, a resort and top class restaurants which take advantage of the superb views from the stunning waterfront esplanade.

Mackay is home to many of the best beaches on the Queensland Coast. Dolphin Heads, Black Beach, Lamberts Beach, Bucasia Beach, Eimeo Beach and Shoal Point from part of the superb white sanded coastline that is kissed by the Pacific Ocean. Mackay is surrounded on the west side by the beautiful Hinterland of the Pioneer Valley and at Finch Hatton Gorge and Eungella you can feel one with nature and all the beauty she provides.