2019 Oceania Athletics Masters Championships

Transcription

1 2019 Oceania Athletics Masters Championships The Mackay Region invites the Oceania Athletics Masters Championships attendees to explore our region mackayregion.com

2 MAYOR S MESSAGE The $24 million Mackay ARC (Aquatic and Recreation Complex) is one of the most significant construction projects delivered by our council. So, it is extremely fitting that an international competition held just months after the completion of construction will help christen this fantastic new community facility. Construction of the Mackay ARC, which features international standard aquatics and athletics facilities, will be completed in February The facility, being built at the CQUniversity Mackay campus, will host the 2019 Oceania Masters Athletics Championships from August 31 to September 7. This prestigious international event was secured earlier in 2018, with funding support from our Invest Mackay Events Attraction Program and the lure of a new internationalstandard facility. We re extremely excited that we ll be hosting more than 500 athletes and technical officials, as well as supporters. For the Oceania Masters Athletics Championships. With teams from as far away as Tahiti, New Caledonia, Nauru, Cook Islands, Fiji, Norfolk Island and Papua New Guinea, as well as Australian and New Zealand athletes, expected to compete, it is a wonderful opportunity to showcase our region. Visitors should explore our award-winning Sarina Sugar Shed a unique miniature sugar mill and distillery which produces our own rum spot a platypus at Eungella National Park and welcome the sunrise with wallabies on the beach at Cape Hillsborough. The Mackay region is also known as a fishing mecca and we have an abundance of man-made attractions, such as Bluewater Lagoon. The Mackay Regional Sports Precinct is a joint initiative between the Australian Government, Mackay Regional Council and CQUniversity, and we look forward to providing a warm Mackay welcome on your arrival. Mayor Greg Williamson Mackay Regional Council

3 ABOUT MACKAY The Mackay Region is Nature. Reserved for you, and for those that seek out life s quieter corners. If you appreciate natural splendour, you ll love exploring a region where the surroundings are unspoiled. A perfect getaway for families, couples or the single traveller, The Mackay Region can offer natural experiences, fun-filled adventures or pure relaxation with a backdrop of gorgeous scenery and amazing sunsets. Whether it s inland, on the coast or in the City Centre, see nature come to life with unique and rare experiences in The Mackay Region. Fall asleep to the sound of waterfalls and wake up surrounded by lush rainforest. Enjoy sunrise with wallabies or sink your toes in the sand at a secluded beach. These are just some of the unique and magical moments you will experience when you visit The Mackay Region. Explore Australia s largest sub-tropical rainforest with a visit to Eungella National Park and allow Finch Hatton Gorge to take your breath away. Find a secluded fishing spot to soak up the sun or head out on an exciting ocean adventure to one of the many surrounding islands. Escape the crowds and discover untouched beaches and islands. Indulge in fresh, local produce at one of the many, friendly restaurants and eateries that offer superb hospitality. Take in the beautiful blue-water views of the Pioneer River. Mackay city also has unique charms of its own including a picturesque blue-water river, a world-class marina precinct, numerous beaches and professional sporting facilities. The region is home to a number of prosperous industries including mining, agriculture (particularly sugar cane) and tourism. Visit any time of the year and you will be able to immerse yourself in the local history and culture and experience exciting entertainment with an extensive choice of events that are unique to The Mackay Region. So what are you waiting for? Escape the crowds and find your own slice of paradise with a visit that will bring you closer to nature and leave you feeling refreshed, relaxed and rejuvenated in The Mackay Region.

4 EVENT GUIDE Saturday 31 August 2019 to Saturday 7 September 2019 (Information as at 26 Sept 2018) Mackay is one of Australia s fastest growing, yet most idyllic regions, where lifestyle and prosperity are the daily currency and the world is increasingly gathering to meet, work and play. A fresh new event destination, Mackay boasts affordable world -class facilities and services with small town hospitality and excellence in customer service. Rainforests with Platypus viewing Spectacular salt and freshwater fishing The sparkling blue of the Pioneer River Spot migrating whales An impressive marina village with alfresco dining Admire Queensland s best collection of art deco architecture (20 lovingly restored heritage listed buildings) Southern Hemisphere s largest Coal Export Facility and largest bulk sugar terminal The gateway to the mining trail 120km from Airlie Beach the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef Climate MONTH MEAN TEMP (C) HUMIDITY RAINFALL (%) (MM) August September October Accessibility & Airport Mackay is one of Queensland s most accessible regional destinations by air, road or rail. Affordable and frequent air services into Mackay Airport with more than 110 flights to the region each from Brisbane, Rockhampton, Townsville and Cairns - serviced by Virgin Australia, QantasLink and Jetstar airlines. Mackay Airport is located 5km kilometres from the Mackay CBD. Rail access is also available via Queensland Railways Spirit of Queensland train service which travels the state s coastline from Cairns to Brisbane and all regions in between. Accommodation Options The Mackay Tourism Information link on the event website has a list of accommodation options and contacts Looking for more information? facebook.com/ oceaniamastersathleticschampionships2019 athleticsnorthqld.org.au/oceania-masters- Athletics-Championships-2019 oceaniamastersathletics2019@gmail.com (+61)

5 EVENT GUIDE Saturday 31 August 2019 to Saturday 7 September 2019 (Information as at 26 Sept 2018) Mackay Aquatic, Sport & Recreational Centre The new $24 million dollar Mackay Aquatic, Sport & Recreational Centre commenced development at CQUniversity Mackay s Ooralea Campus in Mackay, Queensland, Australia and is located 7km from the Mackay CBD.. The precinct is due for completion in February IAAF Class 2 Athletics Facility consisting of: a synthetic surface running track consisting of an eight lane x 400 metre track, a nine lane 113 metre main sprint straight and an eight lane 103 metre secondary sprint straight; four long jump pits and two triple jump options; a steeplechase water jump; one discus circle; one discus/ hammer circle; three shot put circles; two javelin runways; two high jump fans; one dual pole vaulting runway Aquatic Centre consisting of: one 50 metre, 10 lane outdoor heated competition pool; one 25 metre, 6 lane covered heated warm-up program pool; one 15 metre, 5 lane covered heated pool Program / Dates Day 1 Saturday 31 August Registration 5000m Weight Throw (Men & Women) Triple Jump (Men & Women) Day 2 Sunday 1 September Opening Ceremony 10km Road Walk Heptathlon Day 1 Decathlon Day 1 60m Heats & Finals 800m Heats Long Hurdles Hammer (Women) Discus (Men) Day 3 Monday 2 September Heptathlon Day 2 Decathlon Day 2 800m Finals Sprint Hurdles Shot Put (Women) Hammer ( Men) Day 4 Tuesday 3 September 6/8km Cross Country 100m Heats & Finals 200m Heats 5000m Track Walk Long Jump (Women) High Jump (Men) Javelin (Women) Shot Put (Men) Formal Dinner Day 5 Wednesday 4 September General Assembly Day 6 Thursday 5 September Pentathlon (Men & Women) 200m Finals 400m Heats Steeplechase Javelin (Men) Discus (Women) Long Jump (Men) High Jump (Women) Day 7 Friday 6 September Throws Pentathlon (Men & Women) 400m Finals 3000m Race Walk 1500m 4 x 100m Relays Medley Relays (800/400/200/200) Pole Vault (Men and Women) Closing Ceremony Day 8 Saturday 7 September Half Marathon These events have been timetabled on these days but may change due to the number of entries received in events. Event Registration & Fees Registrations are taken online on the event website. Refer to the website for closing dates. OMA Registration Fee AU$40.00 Administration Fee AU$50.00 Total Registration Fee AU$90.00 Entry Fee per Event AU$10.00 Entry Fee per Combined Event AU$20.00 (Heptathlon, Decathlon, Pentathlon, Throw Pentathlon)

6 DESTINATION FAST FACTS Mackay s central location, and ease of access by air, road and rail, makes the destination accessible and attractive to visitors. Mackay is one of Australia s fastest growing, yet most idyllic regions, where lifestyle and prosperity are the daily currency and the world is increasingly gathering to meet, work and play. A fresh new event destination, Mackay boasts affordable world-class facilities and services with small town hospitality and excellence in customer service. Unique Regional Experiences > Scuba diving with platypus > Spectacular salt and freshwater fishing > The sparkling blue of the Pioneer River > Spot migrating whales > An impressive marina village with alfresco dining > Admire Queensland s best collection of art deco architecture (20 lovingly restored heritage listed buildings) > Southern Hemisphere s largest Coal Export Facility and largest bulk sugar terminal > The gateway to the mining trail > 120 km from Airlie Beach the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef > Conference facility at the MECC is also an entertainment centre, providing the opportunity, depending on programming, for delegates to enjoy a live performance Climate Just 340km north of the Tropic of Capricorn, the Mackay-Isaac region s hot summers and mild, sunny winters make its climate one of the best in the world. Average daily temperatures range from just over 22C in the winter months of June-August, up to 30C during the summer months December-February. MONTH MEAN TEMP (C) HUMIDITY (%) RAINFALL (MM) January February March April May June July August September October November December

7 DESTINATION FAST FACTS Accessibility & Airport Mackay is one of Queensland s most accessible regional destinations by air, road or rail. Affordable and frequent air services into Mackay Airport enhance the destination s appeal as a Business Events destination, with more than 110 flights weekly. Airlines Jetstar, Qantaslink and Virgin Australia provide regular services in and out of Mackay to Brisbane, Rockhampton, Townsville, Cairns and Sydney. 70 flights per week provide the easy 1.5 hour connection between Mackay and Brisbane. Mackay Airport is located seven (7) kilometres from the Mackay CBD. Sitting astride the Bruce Highway, Mackay also has excellent road connections. Rail access is also available via Queensland Railways Spirit of Queensland train service which travels the state s coastline from Cairns to Brisbane and all regions in between. With five return services per week, it offers an alternative mode of transport for visitors from nearby regional areas. TAXI: Mackay Taxi- Provides door to door passenger service in one of the largest service areas in Queensland, covering Sarina in the south to Airlie Beach in the north. LIMOUSINE : Mackay Diamond Limousines- Local business servicing the Mackay area offering prompt and superb luxry travel whether it s hassle free airport transfers or for a special event COACH: Greyhound Australia - Operates a fleet in excess of 60 vehicles based in the Central Queensland region. The fleet includes minibuses, commuters through to 50-seater modern coaches. greyhound.com.au Mackay Transit Coaches - Operates a fleet of over 70 vehicles ranging from 11 to 61 seaters. Vehicles are equipped with state-of-the-art vehicle technology and crafted for comfort, durability and efficiency. mackaytransit.com.au

8 MACKAY MAP Mackay ARC

9 Mackay Regional MACKAY CITY MAP Sports Precinct

10 ACCOMMODATION The Mackay Region offers a wide range of accommodation to suit different needs and budgets. Below is a range of accommodation options listed by locality. Mackay City Centre Total No. Rooms Rating Type Contact Mid City Motor Inn Motel (07) / midcitymotel.com.au Potter's Oceanside Motel 57 4 Motel / pottersoceansidemotel.com.au Direct Hotels Pacific Sands Apartments (07) / directhotels.com.au/pacificsands/ Mackay Grande Suites Hotel (07) / mackaygrandesuites.com.au Quest Mackay on Gordon Apartments (07) / questapartments.com.au Lanai Riverside Apartments Apartments (07) / anaiapartments.com.au Oaks Carlyle Apartments Oaks Rivermarque Apartments (07) / oakshotelsresorts.com/mackayaccommodation/oaks-carlyle/ (07) / oakshotelsresorts.com/mackayaccommodation/oaks-rivermarque/ Quest Mackay Apartments (07) / questapartments.com.au Ambassador Hotel 24 Pub (07) / ambassadorhotel.net.au Guest House on Carlyle 1 House / guesthouseoncarlyle.com Riviera Mackay 64 4 Apartments (07) / rivieramackay.com.au International Lodge Motel / internationallodge@bigpond.com McGuires CBD Hotel 23 3 Hotel (07) / mcguirescbdhotel@gmail.com Mackay Suburbs Total No. Rooms Rating Type Contact Cool Palms Motel Motel (07) / coolpalms.com.au Sun plaza Motel 33 3 Motel (07) / sunplazamotel@gmail.com Tropic Coast Motel 35 3 Motel (07) / tropiccoastmotel.com.au Quality Inn Marco Polo 38 3 (07) / marcopolomotel.com.au Reef Resort Motel 35 3 (07) / reefresortmackay.com.au Shamrock Gardens Motel & Shamrock Hotel 36 3 Motel (07) / shamrockmackay.com.au Econo Lodge Beachside Motel Motel (07) / econolodgebeachside.com.au Hi-Way Units Motel Motel (07) / mackaymotel.com Shakespeare Motel 37 4 Motel (07) / mackaymotel.net.au White Lace Motor Inn 37 4 Motel (617) / whitelace.com.au Windmill Motel & Reception Centre 63 4 Motel (07) / windmillmotel.com.au Mackay Rose Motel 28 3 Motel (61) / choicehotels.com.au/en/comfort-innthe-rose-mackay-hotel-au547

11 ACCOMMODATION Mackay Suburbs Total No. Rooms Rating Type Contact Metropolitan Motel 6 3 (07) / ourhotels.com.au/themethotel/ Seabreeze Resort Hotel 36 3 Motel (07) / seabreezemackay.com.au Ibis Mackay Airport Motel / ibis.com/gb/hotel-9266-ibismackay-airport-/index.shtml Ocean International 46 4 Hotel (07) / oceaninternational.com.au Clarion Hotel Mackay Marina Hotel (07) / mmtp.com.au Central Tourist Park Caravan Park (07) / centraltouristpark@bigpond.com Big 4 Mackay Marine Tourist Park 39 3 Caravan Park (07) / mmtp.com.au Beachfront B&B 3 4 B&B noreenjensen.wix.com/beachfrontbnbmackay Premier Caravan Park 12 Caravan Park (07) / premiercp.com.au The Park 46 Caravan Park (07) / theparkmackay.com.au MyCow Pty Ltd 9 Caravan Park (07) / mycowaccommodation.com.au Regatta Beach Apartment 21 House (07) / marinarealty.com.au/index. php/portfolio-of-properties Coral Cay Motor Inn Motel (07) / coralcayresort.com.au Miners Lodge Motor Inn Motel (07) / minerslodge.com.au Blue Ribbon Motor Inn 32 3 Motel (07) / blueribbon@mackay.net.au Mackay Holiday Home Mt Pleasant House / gma62056@bigpond.net.au Rover Units 29 Motel/Self Contained (07) / roverunits.com.au Coral Sands Motel 44 3 Motel / coralsandsmotel.com.au Andergrove Van Park Caravan Park / andergrovevanpark.com Alara Motor Inn 41 4 Motel / reservations@alaramotorinn.com.au Beachside Bed & Breakfast 3 Bed & Breakfast / beachsidebed@gmail.com Bel-Air Motel 4 Motel (07) Boomerang Motor Hotel 22 3 Motel (07) / boomeranghotel.manager@spirithotels.com.au City Gates Motel Motel / janelle@citygatesmotel.com.au Country Plaza Motor Inn 38 4 Motel / countryplaza@live.com.au Galaxy Mackay Motor Inn Motel / accom@gorriesmotel.com.au Gecko s Rest 19 Backpackers / info@geckosrest.com.au Hilltop Caravan Park Caravan Park (07) Illawong Beach Resort 37 3 Resort / illawong@illawong-beach.com.au Lantern Motor Inn Motel (07) / info@lanternmotorinn.com.au

12 ACCOMMODATION Mackay Motor Inn 22 3 Motel Mackay Resort Motel 40 4 Motel (07) / reservations@mackaymotorinn.com.au (07) / reservations@mackayresortmotel.com.au Mia Mia Motel 16 Motel (07) / quintap@bigpond.net.au Ocean Resort Village Resort (07) / info@oceanresortvillage.com.au Paradise Lodge Motel 12 3 Motel (07) / info@mackaymotel.com Pioneer Villa Motel 21 Motel (07 ) / reservations@pioneervilla.com Kooyong Hotel Motel 14 Motel (07) / kooyonghotel.manager@spirithotels.com.au Motel Northview Motel (07) / motelnorthviewmackay@gmail.com Taylors Hotel Hotel (07) / taylorshotel.manager@spiritshotels.com.au Northern Beaches Total No. Rooms Rating Type Contact Big4 Mackay Blacks Beach Holiday Park 13 3 Caravan Park (07) mackayblacksbeachholidaypark.com.au La Solana Holiday Units Motel/Self Contained (07) / lasolanaholidays.com.au Comfort Resort Blue Pacific 26 4 Apartments (61) / bluepacificresort.com.au The Shores Holiday Apartments 36 4 Apartments (07) / theshores.com.au Dolphin Heads Resort Resort (61) / dolphinheadsresort.com.au Kohuna Beachside Resort 25 Resort (07) / kohuna.com.au Waterfront Getaway 1 House (07) / waterfrontgetaway.com.au Leeway Beach House 1 House (07) / leewaybeachhouse.com.au Mackay Beach Accommodation Iluka 1 3 House (07) / mackaybeachaccommodation.com.au Bucasia Beachfront Caravan Park 47 Caravan Park (07) / stay@bucasiabeach.com.au Mackay Blacks Beach Holiday Park 13 4 Caravan Park (07) / info@mbbhp.com.au Sarina Suburbs Total No. Rooms Rating Type Contact Armstrong Beach Caravan Park 21 Carava Park (07) / armstrongbeach@bigpond.com General Gordon Koumala Caravan Park 4 Caravan Park (07) Kookaburra Cottage Bed & Breakfast 1 Self contained cottage Moana Caravan Park Caravan Park (07) / moanacaravanpark@gmail.com Sarina Motor Inn Motel (07) / info@sarinamotorinn.com.au Sea Eagles Beach Resort Resort (07) / reservations@seaeaglesresort.com.au Sarina Beach Motel Motel (07) / admin@sarinabeachmotel.com.au

13 ACCOMMODATION Sarina Palms Caravan Village Caravan Park (07) / info@sarinapalms.com.au Sarina Motor Inn 16 Motel (07) / info@sarinamotorinn.com.au Sarina Beach Fernandos Hideaway B&B 3 B&B (07) / bookings@sarinabeachbb.com Sandpiper Motel 23 Motel (07) The Villages Alligator Creek 80 Cabins (07) / alligatorcreek@villaccom.com.au Tramway Motel Motel (07) Tandara Motel 15 Motel (07) Tropicana Caravan Park Caravan Park (07) Pioneer Valley Suburbs Total No. Rooms Rating Type Contact Broken River Mountain Resort 5 Resort (07) / enquiries@brokenrivermr.com.au Eungella Chalet Motel (07) / info@eungellachalet.com.au Eungella Mountain Edge Escape 3 Cabins / mountainedgeescape@bigpond.com Finch Hatton Gorge Cabins 3 Cabins (07) Kinchat Waters Caravan Park Caravan Park (07) / admin@kinchantwaters.com.au Mirani Caravan Park & Swimming 36 Caravan Park (07) / miranipool@bigpond.com Platypus Bush Camp 10 Camping & Cabins (07) Hibiscus Coast Suburbs Total No. Rooms Rating Type Contact Ball Bay Campground Caravan Park (07) Cape Hillsborough Nature Resort Resort (07) / enquiries@capehillsboroughresort.com.au Jolimont Caravan Park Caravan Park (07) / internationallodge@bigpond.com O Connell River Whitsunday Tourist Park 40 Caravan Park (07) / manageroconnell@bigpond.com The Feathered Nest Luxury Wildlife Retreat 5 Retreat (07) / relax@thefeatherednest.com.au Seaforth Holiday Unitd 4 Units (07) / seaforthunits@bigpond.com St Helen s Gardens Caravan Park 26 Caravan Park (07) / sthelensgardens@bigpond.com Sticks and Stones B&B (07) / sticksandstones7@bigpond.com For a full listing of accommodation in the Mackay region visit: For group bookings please contact Mackay Tourism at bookings@mackayregion.com.

14 PRE & POST TOURING & ACTIVITIES The Mackay Region boasts a diverse mix of leisure products, destinations and activities to appeal to delegates and accompanying partners for pre and post touring. Whether you choose to stay in Mackay, head just outside the city, or go further afield. Highlights include: IN MACKAY... The Bluewater Lagoon - this huge man-made recreational lagoon surrounded by landscaped gardens is located in the heart of the city, overlooking the blue Pioneer River. This free-access family-friendly leisure facility comprises three tiered lagoons, a Kid s Corner, water slide and café. The Bluewater Trail & Quay - the trail incorporates raised boardwalks plus extensive pedestrian and bike pathways, which meander along the river and through the city s green spaces, eventually leading to the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens. Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens - a green 51 hectare oasis surrounding wildlife-filled lagoons just five kilometres from the city centre. Facilities include the Lagoon Gallery & Café and outdoor deck area. Free guided tours are provided for visitors to explore and enjoy the peaceful surrounds of one of Australia s newest and most innovative botanical gardens. Artspace Mackay - Mackay s diverse culture starts here at this architectural award-winning regional art gallery. Local arts on display, touring exhibitions and heritage, all located in the city centre. Mackay Marina Village - admire one of Queensland s largest marinas; embark upon a saltwater or freshwater fishing excursion; enjoy alfresco dining in a range of restaurants overlooking the marina or enjoy live music and entertainment. Beaches - The Mackay region boasts over 31 beaches. Eimeo Beach was awarded as one of the best beaches in Australia s 101 Beach Search, and boasts sweeping panoramic views of the Coral Sea. Mackay s Town Beach offers numerous water sports activities for the more active-minded. ON OUR DOORSTEP... Sarina Sugar Shed - an award-winning local attraction located ½ hour south of Mackay. It features Australia s only miniature sugar mill and distillery specialising in delicious rums and liqueurs, sauces, chutneys, and home-made fudge confectionary. Pioneer Valley and Eungella National Park - the park s ancient rainforest is one of the best places in the world to see the remarkable and very shy platypus in the wild. It is just one hour s drive from the Mackay CBD and offers a range of dining and activity options, including the chance to SCUBA dive with the platypus. Scenic Finch Hatton Gorge - a leisurely hour drive inland and at 2,500 feet above sea level, is a spot where visitors can enjoy a picnic and a refreshing swim in the Gorge s fresh water. Cape Hillsborough - share a beach sunrise with the wallabies. This spectacular coastal national park is made up of dramatic headlands, rainforests and nature walks. Sunrise with the Wallabies Tour now available! Mackay Islands - stay on Keswick Island. Pristine beaches, virgin forests and vibrant coral. This well-kept secret island houses some beautiful accommodation with spectacular views.

15 PRE & POST TOURING & ACTIVITIES Old Station Tea House - (45 km and 35 min drive from the CBD) A teahouse that has been skilfully relocated and restored from an old railway station. Complete with homemade jam and a selection of conserves from surrounding producers, the beautifully landscaped tropical gardens are a popular location for local functions. Is much an attraction as an eating place. FURTHER AFIELD... Proserpine - (125km drive from the CBD) Day tours are available with visits to the Whitsunday Gold Coffee Plantation for morning tea, and a shopping afternoon at the quirky Color Me Crazy gift shop.. Airlie Beach, The Whitsundays - (125km drive from the CBD) The Whitsundays is a world renowned holiday destination, with Whitsunday icons like the Great Barrier Reef, Heart Reef and Whitehaven Beach at the top of millions of bucket lists the world around. Airlie Beach is the hub of the Whitsundays region, being the largest town on the Whitsunday Coast, almost entirely focused on tourism. The Mining Trail and Serenity Coast - Be inspired by the magic of The Mining Trail and splendour of the Serenity Coast that lie within the Mackay-Isaac region of Queensland. A tourist route less travelled, The Mining Trail follows the passage of coal from our mines in the Bowen Basin, to the place of export to our overseas customers. The trail spans some 300 kilometres along the Peak Downs Highway between Clermont, Moranbah, Dysart, Nebo, Mackay, Hay Point and Sarina. For more activities in the Mackay Region visit

16 Are you looking for a fantastic family holiday that won t break the budget? The Mackay Region has you covered with a wide range of amazing sights and fun activities that won t cost a thing Finch Hatton Gorge & Eungella National Park Experience breathtaking Finch Hatton Gorge or Eungella National Park. There s an array of walking tracks suitable for all levels. A viewing platform near the Broken River Visitor Information Centre will provide a good chance to spot platypus. Travel west along the Mackay-Eungella Road and follow the signs until you reach Finch Hatton Gorge on the right, or Eungella National Park on the left. Distance: Approx. 80km Cape Hillsborough National Park This ruggedly scenic park includes rainforest, eucalypt forest, beaches, rocky headlands and volcanic rock formations. Take a bushwalk to Andrews Point which is great for spotting turtles and other marine life. The iconic roo on the beach photograph can be captured at sunrise when they come to feed. Travel north on Bruce Highway, turn right towards Seaforth and then left to Cape Hillsborough. Distance: Approx. 50km Swim at the Bluewater Lagoon With three lagooninspired swimming pools, and a small children s water park plus water slide, the Bluewater Lagoon is a refreshing and fun attraction for the whole family. Admission is free. 32 River Street, Mackay Open 7 Days: 9am 5.45pm Fish and Chips at Mulherin Park Boasting one of the largest playground parks in The Mackay Region, Mulherin Park has great facilities including covered picnic areas, toilets, barbecue facilities, and grassed areas shaded by big palm trees. Enjoy fish and chips from the Lighthouse Seafood across the road, or take a walk through the Mackay Marina Village. Mulherin Drive, Mackay Harbour Open 7 Days Explore the Botanic Gardens Enjoy a stroll through the colourful and diverse botanic gardens, which showcases a vibrant array of flora. There s a café, school holiday activities and free, guided walks on a regular basis. Admission to the gardens is free. 9 Lagoon Street, West Mackay Open 7 Days

17 Enjoy a unique experience when wallabies and kangaroos feed on the beach at Cape Hillsborough. Remember that these are wild animals and should be treated as such. Please do not feed the kangaroos and wallabies and ensure to keep a safe distance at all times. Sunrise with wallabies and kangaroos at the beach at Cape Hillsborough National Park Cape Hillsborough National Park, approximately 45 minutes north of Mackay, is where the rainforest meets the sea. The area has a variety of volcanic headlands, eucalypt forests that are home to koalas and kookaburras and prehistoric rock formations. Platypus spotting at Broken River Eungella National Park, approximately one-hour drive west of Mackay, is one of the most reliable spots in Australia to see the elusive platypus in the wild. From the viewing decks at Broken River Visitor Information Centre, spot this shy creature in its natural habitat, as well as turtles and other wildlife. Bushwalking at Eungella National Park High above the Pioneer Valley, Eungella National Park is Queensland s most ecologically diverse park and home to Australia s longest stretch of sub-tropical rainforest. Eungella has more than 20km of walking tracks. You can stroll with the family, walk for several hours, or set out on the 56km Great Walk. Watch the sun set at Sunset Bay, Eimeo Beach The aptly named Sunset Bay at Eimeo Beach is a prime location to capture the incredible colours of the sky when the sun goes down. Sunset Bay is also a well-known fishing spot. Nearby you ll find Mango Avenue and the grand entrance to the Eimeo Pacific Hotel where you can enjoy lunch with a million-dollar-view. The best times to see the platypus is at dawn or dusk. Keep quiet and still as they are quite shy and keep an eye out for air bubbles, as the platypus feeds from the bottom but surfaces to chew its food and breathe. Fishing at Kinchant Dam Kinchant Dam is approximately 40 minutes west of Mackay, nestled in the hinterland region. Home to large barramundi, sooty grunter and cod, the dam is stocked by local fishing authorities to keep fish numbers plentiful. Kinchant Dam is a popular spot for camping and water sport activities like waterskiing, wakeboarding and jetskiing.

18 Start at Cape Hillsborough National Park: Take photos with the kangaroos and wallabies at sunrise and enjoy a bushwalk to Andrews Point to see turtles and other marine life. Tip: Stop in at the Old Station Teahouse. They serve delicious scones with homemade jam and cream. Scenic Drive through the Pioneer Valley: Enjoy picturesque views of Mackay s hinterland. Swimming in the fresh water at Finch Hatton Gorge is a must it s literally breathtaking. There are also a number of walking tracks and waterfalls to explore. Tip: Stop at the Pinnacle Family Hotel on the way to Finch Hatton Gorge for a famous Pinnacle Pie. Eungella National Park: Welcome to Eungella, where the air is clear and the scenery is spectacular! Travel along the winding Eungella- Dam Road, surrounded by lush rainforest. You ll soon find Broken River Mountain Resort a unique family-friendly retreat, offering good accommodation and hearty meals. Tip: Indulge in a delicious meal at Possums Table Restaurant. Platypus in the Wild: Can you spot the platypus? Dawn or dusk are the best times to see them via the viewing platforms near the Broken River Visitor Information Centre. From here, you can also explore more of the spectacular rainforest with a variety of walking tracks. Tip: Stop in at Platypus Lodge or experience the Eungella Chalet for great food and awesome views. South to Sarina: Approx. 1.5 hours from Eungella. Enjoy a tour of the Sarina Sugar Shed, a miniature sugar mill and distillery with guided, interactive tours. See how sugar is grown, processed, milled and distilled and taste the products made on site. Tip: Sarina Beach is just a few minutes away and is fringed by an esplanade park with barbecue facilities. Great spot for fishing or a picnic. Botanic Gardens in Mackay: On the way back to Mackay, stop in at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens on Lagoon Street overlooking a freshwater lagoon. Tip: There s a heap of family-friendly restaurants with vibrant dining options in Mackay s City Centre, or along the river at Caneland Central. The Mackay Marina: A short drive from the Mackay City Centre, the Marina Village offers magnificent views of the Harbour, with breezy walks and contemporary dining options available. Tip: Breakfast is served at The Clarion Hotel s Latitude 21 Restaurant daily from 6.30am, with spectacular views of the Marina. Explore the Northern Beaches of Mackay: Take a self-guided drive down the Mackay-Bucasia Road. Stop in at Eimeo Beach, patrolled during the school holidays. It s a little slice of paradise without the crowds! Tip: Lunch with a million-dollar-view at the historic Eimeo Pacific Hotel is an experience you should not miss! Fishing and exploring: If you re up for some fishing or water sport activities, head to Shoal Point; the most northern beach along that stretch of coastline. The kids can enjoy the playground on the esplanade or take a dip in the sea. It s worth staying for sunset, as the colours are spectacular. Tip: Visit the famous lone tree for a photo.