See a completely different part of the country now with a visit to Mackay. There, almost a third of Australia’s sugar is produced and you’ll pass fields which could have been transplanted from the Caribbean.
The air is thick with the sweet smell of the cane, especially around harvest time and roadside stalls sell cane to chew – an interesting experience for those with a sweet tooth. Organise a hire car from Rhino at the same time you book your holiday and then explore this very different part of the country.
Mackay Mini Guide
Mackay in a Nutshell
Mackay is a town on the eastern coast of Queensland, Australia and 900km north of Brisbane, the state capital. It is known for its natural beauty and laid back lifestyle.
How do I get There?
You can fly from Brisbane to Mackay Airport or travel by train with Queensland Rail. Greyhound has coach services to Mackay from most cities in Queensland. You can also drive along the whole coastline from Brisbane through Mackay to Cairns, using the Bruce Highway. Once you are there, use the bus service or hire a car to get around and really explore the area.
What Can I See in Mackay?
Take a Heritage Walk around the town centre, it takes 90 minutes and you will see the local architecture and find out more about the town’s history. For a little more history and culture head for Artspace, the town’s museum and art gallery or take a tour of Farleigh Mill to discover how sugar cane was produced. Go for a wander around the harbour and Marina Village or stroll through the Mackay Botanical Gardens.
Anything Else to do?
Head to the beach, there are 31 beaches in the Mackay area! Go bushwalking and explore the flora and fauna in Eungella National Park - you will see platypus in their natural environment and don’t miss Araluen Falls.
What Can I See, out of Town?
Of course, you must take a trip to the beautiful Whitsunday Islands and see the Great Barrier Reef. Back on dry land, Nebo and Clermont are well worth a visit, they are historic bush towns with open cut mines set in ancient landscapes.
I’m Hungry…
The Marina has some of the best places to eat, try George’s Thai Restaurant for authentic Thai cuisine, al fresco. You can also join in the weekly cookery class he offers.
Where can I buy Souvenirs?
Head for the mall at Mount Pleasant Greenfields or Caneland Central. If it’s the weekend, browse the market stalls for something unusual at Victoria Street and Milton Street.
Where Would I Stay?
There are so many types of accommodation in Mackay – you can stay in a caravan, log cabin or a motel or lodge house, the choice is yours!
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