Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
The Pioneer Valley, a hidden gem west of Mackay, is a place where natural beauty meets untapped potential. From the lush subtropical rainforests to the wide paddocks of sugar cane swaying in the breeze, the valley offers a serene escape into nature's embrace. The Pioneer River meanders through this landscape, providing cool, invigorating spots for a refreshing dip, while the misty Eungella Range adds a touch of mystery and allure. This region, with its cascading waterfalls and boutique artisan businesses, is on the cusp of becoming a major tourism destination. Imagine luxury eco-resorts nestled within the rainforests, offering a retreat from the everyday, or vibrant markets showcasing the rich flavours and cultural heritage of the area. The Pioneer Valley is ready to welcome visitors seeking adventure, relaxation, and a taste of the great outdoors. With new businesses emerging, job opportunities increasing, and the community thriving, the Pioneer Valley is poised to take its place as a premier destination for those looking to explore Queensland’s natural beauty. Whether you're seeking a tranquil getaway or an exciting adventure, the Pioneer Valley is where the journey begins. CAPTION: The Pioneer Valley's stunning natural landscapes, from rainforest-clad mountains to the winding Pioneer River, continues to attract visitors and showcase the region's potential as a premier nature-based tourism destination
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On Sunday, botanical artist Kate Bruner lead the Mackay Bushwalkers’ Club weekly outing to a remote area of Finch Hatton Gorge, known as Sparkle Falls. Twelve members hiked up, up and away onto the western branch of Finch Hatton Creek. A very steep and steady trail took them to an outstanding lookout and the first of many beautiful waterfalls. As the group continued, they were treated to a succession of picturesque cascades, numerous creek crossings, and plenty of boulder hopping through the rugged creek bed. On arrival at Sparkle Falls a few adventurous souls braved the chilly waters for a refreshing swim, while others relaxed in the sunshine and soaked up the tranquil surroundings. A long lunch was enjoyed, followed by slow walk back. It was an excellent day in the bush, filled with breath taking scenery, good company and a diverse group of friendly hikers who made the experience all the more enjoyable. For more information about the club, phone 0429 363 929. Contributed with thanks to Coral and Carole.
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NAIDOC Week celebrations across Mackay and the Whitsundays will receive a funding boost this year, with three local events sharing in State Government grants to mark the 50th anniversary of the annual celebration. More than $170,000 has been allocated to 59 community-led events across Queensland through the NAIDOC Grants Program, with funding designed to support activities that celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, heritage and community connections. In the Mackay region, Mackay NAIDOC Incorporated received funding for its Street Parade and Family Fun Day in East Mackay, while the George Street Neighbourhood Centre Association secured support for its NAIDOC Week at The Neighbourhood Hub event. In the Whitsundays, Yooribaya Cultural Experiences Pty Ltd was awarded funding for its "Together by the Sea: NAIDOC 2026" celebration in Airlie Beach. National NAIDOC Week will be held from the 5th to the 12th of July under the theme "50 Years of Deadly", recognising half a century of celebrating and honouring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, culture and achievements. Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Fiona Simpson said the grants helped communities deliver meaningful local celebrations. “As we celebrate Fifty Years of Deadly, our NAIDOC Grants not only pay respect to the strength of our Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples, but they also amplify the impact of community events,” Minister Simpson said. “It is inspiring to see communities from Brisbane to Bamaga committing to coming together during NAIDOC Week to recognise and celebrate the unique cultural heritage of our First Peoples. “The Government is a proud supporter of these community-led initiatives, which celebrate the rich 50-year history and traditions of the world’s oldest continuous living culture.” The grants program provides up to $2,500 for eligible events and activities, helping local organisers deliver community celebrations, cultural activities, yarning circles and family-friendly events during NAIDOC Week. This year's celebrations carry added significance as communities across Australia mark the 50th anniversary of NAIDOC Week, reflecting on five decades of recognising and celebrating the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Minister Simpson said the grants supported practical outcomes at a community level. “The Crisafulli Government remains committed to practical support to deliver tangible outcomes for our Aboriginal peoples and our Torres Strait Islander peoples,” she said. Local residents are encouraged to take part in NAIDOC Week events across Mackay and the Whitsundays when celebrations begin in July. CAPTION: Mackay NAIDOC Incorporated's Street Parade and Family Fun Day is among local events receiving State Government funding ahead of this year's NAIDOC Week celebrations. Photo source: Mackay Regional Council
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Ohhh, I do love me a good bit of quirky Bri'ish (not a typo) theatre if I do say so myself. And Kucom's latest play - a delightful adaptation of a classic BBC sitcom - is a perfectly precise, profoundly polished and pleasing production, that would make the BBC proud! Waiting for God is full to the brim with quick wit, and witty quips, providing the audience with chuckles, guffaws and a rather loud "ha!" from me that may have been a snort - yes indeed, this play will have you grinning from ear to ear. If you know Director Bronwyn Grannall (and I do), you'll know she's got a delightful sense of humour, and this shines through in all facets - from the perfect casting to the set design and even the lighting (which I’m told is a brand new system at Kucom - very exciting!) Tessa King as Diana, shines with razor-sharp cleverness and surprising warmth, Sarah Menso as Jane brings a wonderfully awkward and delightful propriety to proceedings, and Hayden White as Harvey is the kind of character you'd love to give a gentle nudge off a cliff. Then there's David Goodwin as Geoffrey, whose characterisation and accent had me in absolute stitches, and Cheryl Obst, who stepped seamlessly between Sarah Chase, the Doctor, and stepped up as understudy for Andrew Obst as Rev Dennis Sparrow. Cheryl delivered each character with such distinct flair that you'd never know she was doing the work of three. Special mention to Jeany Elliott for her fab supporting characters! And, of course, praise to Geoff Stewart-McLean, who should really be on the stage (or TV) in London, as he always exceptionally embodies every character he plays. Waiting for God is sharp and funny, and carries some rather lovely themes about life, desire, and the very wonderful reminder that it is never, ever too late to find love - or not find it! Jolly good show Bronwyn and cast. 10/10 pearls clutched in absolute delight. Book your tickets now!!! Season dates: 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 27 June at 7.30pm, plus Sunday matinee 21 June at 2pm Bookings: https://events.humanitix.com/waiting-for-god
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Friday 29th May
Opening Of The River Reimagined project
10am
Mackay’s River Reimagined project will be officially opened on Friday 29th May 2026 from 10am–11am at Bluewater Trail, across from the old Telstra building on River Street. The free community event invites the public to hear the story behind the installation, alongside a special performance by the Unheard Voices Collective presenting their original river-inspired song. All are welcome to attend and celebrate the new work along the river. For those unable to attend, a free public art walk and artist talk will follow on 12thJune.
Bluewater Trail, across from the old Telstra building on River Street
Saturday 30th May
River of Life Community Festival
From 10am
Mackay’s waterfront will come alive on 30th May 2026 for the River of Life Community Festival, a free all-day celebration running across multiple stages from 10am through to late evening. From youth performances and live music to market stalls, food vendors and a lively beer garden, there’s something for every age and taste. With free children’s activities and a packed entertainment line-up, it’s a perfect chance to gather, explore and enjoy the heart of the community together.
Blue Water Quay
Tuesday 2nd June
Mackay Disability Expo
9am
The Mackay Disability Expo 2026 is a free, inclusive community event offering a valuable opportunity for people with disability, carers, families and support networks to explore a wide range of products, services, technology, aids and equipment available across the region. Held on Tuesday 2nd June 2026 from 9:00am–12:00pm at the Big Shed, Mackay Showgrounds, the event is fully accessible and welcoming. Visitors can connect directly with service providers, discover support options, and access information designed to enhance independence, wellbeing and community participation.
Mackay Showgrounds
Puppets in the Park
9.30am
Families in Mackay’s Northern Beaches are invited to enjoy a relaxed morning at Puppets in the Park on Tuesday 2nd June at Seaview Park, Bucasia Esplanade, running 9:30am–11:30am. This free community wellbeing event features wooden lawn games, sand play and a 10am Wild Puppets show, A Pirate Adventure. Bring a picnic rug, snacks, water and sunscreen for a fun, easy morning outdoors. A small $3 family donation is welcomed to support future community events.
Seaview Park, Bucasia Esplanade
At The Pregnancy, Birth & Beyond Expo Mackay
The MECC is to be transformed into a warm, enlightening space on the morning of the 14th of June, welcoming parents, parents-to-be, and their support networks to the Pregnancy, Birth & Beyond Expo - a morning designed for anyone in the early stages of family life.
“Whether you’re pregnant, planning, newly postpartum or raising little ones… this is for you,” organisers shared.
“Mackay, this is your event.”
The expo will run from 9am-1pm and will be attended by over 40 local exhibitors, delivering informative, expert-led workshops, resources and advice to educate, empower, and connect families during one of the most important stages of life.
The event was envisioned to showcase evidence-based services, products, and education that support families from conception through pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and beyond.
Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with exhibitors, learn about services and business, and meet with local experts in a welcoming, family-friendly environment.
Any little ones can be kept busy by the soft play area, whilst the grown-ups connect, learn and feel supported.
Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
The Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce hosted the official launch of “Pizza for a Purpose” at Laffos Bar & Pizzeria during its Chamber B2B Brews event on Tuesday, 26th May, where every large pizza sold in June will support Grapevine Group’s suicide prevention SAFE Talk training across the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday regions.
As the wedding day approaches, planning can bring both excitement and pressure, but it also offers couples a chance to prioritise wellbeing and step into the celebration feeling energised, confident and naturally radiant.
A strong glow-up starts with nutrition. Preparing meals together and focusing on fresh, nutrient-rich foods helps support skin health and energy. Key choices include salmon, avocado and berries, alongside plenty of water for hydration and gut-friendly foods like kimchi and kombucha for added vitality.
Movement is equally important. Couples’ workouts such as yoga, resistance training or HIIT can reduce stress, improve fitness and strengthen connection during the busy lead-up.
Simple, consistent beauty routines also make a difference, including cleansing, exfoliating and moisturising, while early skincare planning and grooming help refine the final look.
Above all, shared self-care, from spa days to quiet at-home rituals, help couples reset and reconnect.
Rather than a one-day transformation, the real benefit lies in building small, sustainable habits that support how couples feel throughout the journey to the altar and beyond.
The sister duo behind Ivory Picnic Co are turning celebrations into unforgettable experiences. Photo supplied
Born from a shared passion for creating meaningful moments, Ivory Picnic Co is transforming celebrations across Mackay and surrounding regions with its beautifully styled luxury picnic experiences. Founded by sisters Jaclyn Rook and Katina Griffiths, the business combines creativity, elegance and a genuine love for bringing people together to create unforgettable occasions tailored to each client’s unique vision.
From romantic anniversaries and dreamy proposals to birthdays, baby showers and intimate catch-ups with friends, every setup is thoughtfully curated with meticulous attention to detail — right down to the final flourish. Whether it’s a cosy beachside picnic for two or a larger celebration surrounded by loved ones, Ivory Picnic Co brings a touch of luxury and effortless charm to every event.
Servicing Mackay, Sarina, Seaforth and Finch Hatton, the sister duo are passionate about taking the stress out of hosting, allowing clients to simply arrive, relax and soak in the moment. With glowing testimonials and a growing local following, Ivory Picnic Co is quickly becoming one of the region’s go-to names for stylish celebrations filled with warmth, beauty and heart.
Star Sign: Cancerian
Fave movie: How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days.
Fave colour: I love them all.
Fave holiday destination: Again, love them all – I’m still exploring.
Fave music: I have a diverse taste in music. I love Fleetwood Mac, Olivia Dean, Tool, Rage Against the Machine, Hip Hop and also Debussy- specifically Clair de Lune. I just love music.
Fave quote: Be kind as you may be the nicest thing to happen in someone’s day.
Tell us something most people don't know about you? There are many things; perhaps that I love to go the movies or coffee dates alone is a random pass time most people don’t enjoy.
Corissa Ivory is a woman who does it all. She’s a successful business owner, authentic make-up artist and, often, a therapist for the clients who sit in her salon chair. Beyond her profession, she’s a wife to Jason, her cherished husband of 20 years, mum to her beloved 14-year-old son Logan, and proud dog mum to 13-year-old Mickey.
Interestingly, Corissa’s career began in hospitality, where she proudly made “the best cappuccinos in town as a teenager,” before mastering the art of carrying three beers in one hand. From there, she moved into the corporate world while quietly building her beauty skills and growing Funk It Up into the respected business it is today.
Twenty years later, Corissa has created a thriving makeup artistry empire alongside a passionate team dedicated to helping people feel beautiful for every occasion.
A lifelong Mackay local, she treasures quiet moments by the beach, time with family and friends, and cheering on Logan through his many interests. Determined, introverted and honest, Corissa says becoming a mother has been both the greatest gift and the greatest adventure of her life.
@Funk It Up
Marie Muscat is a vibrant, passionate celebrant based in Mackay, proudly serving couples across the Mackay and Whitsunday area. With a warm and engaging presence, Marie brings personality, heart, and genuine connection to every ceremony – helping couples feel relaxed, celebrated, and truly seen on their most important day.
From the first conversation to the final “I do,” Marie focuses on creating meaningful celebrations that reflect the couple’s story. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a more formal occasion, Marie’s approach is personal, attentive, and guided by what matters most to you. She understands that every relationship is unique, and she loves tailoring each ceremony so it feels authentic rather than generic.
For couples who want their ceremony to be more than just words, Marie works to create a moment that guests remember and couples carry with them long after the day is done. Marie’s passion shows in the way she connects with people, the way she leads with confidence and care, and the way she turns planning into something enjoyable and exciting.
If you’re looking for a celebrant who is enthusiastic, personable, and committed to delivering a ceremony filled with meaning, Marie Muscat would be honoured to be part of your journey.
mariemuscatevents.com.au
In the heart of North Queensland’s wedding scene, the countdown is underway for one of the region’s most anticipated bridal events – the 2026 Mackay & Whitsundays Wedding Expo, returning on Saturday, June 6th from 4:00pm to 8:00pm at the Mackay Showgrounds.
Set beneath the soft glow of early evening light, the expo entails an elegant, immersive experience for couples stepping into one of life’s most meaningful chapters. Whether newly engaged or refining final details, guests will find an inspired, one-stop destination where wedding dreams begin to take shape with ease, creativity, and connection.
Bringing together the region’s most sought-after wedding professionals, the event offers couples the opportunity to meet planners, celebrants, florists, stylists, hair and makeup artists, venues, entertainers, caterers and cake designers, all under one roof. A photo booth will also be available on site. It is, at its heart, a celebration of local talent and the artistry behind the region’s most stunning, seamless, and successful wedding days.
Beyond inspiration, the expo is designed as a practical planning experience. Couples can explore the latest bridal trends, compare services, secure bookings, and speak directly with suppliers who understand the unique character and beauty of your special day, from coastal ceremonies to hinterland celebrations.
This year also introduces a refined new feature: the VIP Wedding Expo Experience. Designed for couples seeking something a little more elevated, the VIP package offers exclusive lounge access, curated canapés by Sinful Kitchen, three complimentary drinks per guest, reserved front-row seating at the fashion parade, and a luxe VIP gift bag to take home. It’s an invitation to slow down, sip, and savour the moment while planning unfolds in style. Organisers encourage guests to secure tickets early via Eventbrite to avoid missing out.
More than an expo, the evening unfolds as a shared experience, a space where ideas are sparked, visions come to life, and couples are guided gently and professionally, toward the day they’ve been imagining. From the first “yes” to the final dance, every detail finds its place among a community of passionate creators ready to bring your love story to life.
Echoes of the Gorge – A Creative Community invites the community to come together and shape a Creative Sunday that reflects local identity, celebrates place and strengthens connections.
Led by volunteers, local artists, residents and businesses, the community-driven initiative is part of the Mackay Festival of Arts and aims to grow participation, support local businesses and build a shared vision for future community-led creative events and a long-term regional arts trail.
Organised by the Finch Hatton Progress Association (FHPA), the event transforms ‘The Old Finch Hatton Railway Station – Community and Creative Hub’ into a welcoming space for creativity, culture and connection. The day encourages local people to lead and participate in free workshops (all ages), art and artisan markets, stunning art exhibition and life music by talented local buskers that reflect the unique character of the Pioneer Valley.
Taking place on Sunday, 9 August 2026, from 9am to 3pm, The Old Finch Hatton Railway Station will come alive with colour, sound and artistic expression. Free creative workshops throughout the day will offer hands-on experiences for all ages and abilities, while an art and artisan market will showcase handcrafted goods and unique treasures from local makers and creators.
Live buskers will provide an ever-changing soundtrack across the grounds, adding to the vibrant community atmosphere.
Beyond the station, visitors are encouraged to explore nearby attractions, including the ‘Mad Hatter Tea Party’ hosted by One Hungry Mumma from 11am to 2pm, the Eungella Community Markets from 9am to 1pm, ‘Build Your Own Waffle Bar’ at The Gift Shed Cafe (9am to 3pm), Badilla Art Gallery in Pinnacle is open from 9am to 12pm and live music at The Criterion Hotel from 3pm onwards.
Echoes of the Gorge - A Creative Community stands as a tribute to creativity, connection and place, bringing people together through shared artistic expression.
The event is proudly supported by Premium Sponsor Robyn Agius – Area Specialist, helping bring this regional cultural experience to life and funding from the Mackay Regional Council.
Mark your calendars for Sunday, 9 August 2026 and experience a celebration where creativity, culture and community come alive in the heart of Finch Hatton.
For more information visit: finchhatton.org.au
Nestled along Mackay’s picturesque northern coastline, Comfort Resort Blue Pacific is quietly carving out a reputation as one of the region’s most tranquil beachfront escapes – a destination where time slows, sea breezes replace city noise and guests are invited to truly unwind.
Framed by tropical gardens and absolute beachfront views, the resort offers a rare blend of seclusion and convenience. Just minutes from the Northern Beaches’ growing retail and dining precincts, yet worlds away from the rush of everyday life, the property has become a favourite among holidaymakers, regional families and corporate travellers alike.
For many guests arriving from inland mining communities and rural Queensland towns, the resort represents a welcome change of scenery, an opportunity to trade dust and long workdays for ocean air, palm-lined pathways and evenings spent beside the water watching the islands shimmer on the horizon.
New Owner and Managing Director Renee said the resort’s direct beachfront position continued to be its defining feature, offering visitors an experience few accommodations in the region could replicate. Guests can step from the resort grounds directly onto the sand, immersing themselves in the calming rhythm of the coastline from the moment they arrive.
The property is equally appealing to corporate and fly-in workers seeking more than standard city accommodation. Spacious self-contained apartments, quiet surrounds and a relaxed atmosphere provide a “home away from home.” It’s a place where guests can decompress after long shifts while still remaining connected to Mackay’s key business and industrial hubs.
The resort’s charm lies in its atmosphere. Afternoons are often spent sitting quietly by the waterfront, soaking in uninterrupted ocean views and the peaceful ambience that has become synonymous with the property. It is this understated simplicity that keeps guests returning time and time again.
Despite its prime location, Comfort Resort Blue Pacific remains something of a hidden gem, with many Mackay locals surprised to discover the secluded beachfront retreat tucked quietly along the coast. That sense of discovery has only added to the resort’s growing appeal, particularly for couples and families seeking a short escape without venturing far from home.
Now under the stewardship of new owners Renee and Brett, the resort is entering an exciting new chapter. With fresh energy and a long-term vision for thoughtful modernisation, the pair are focused on enhancing the guest experience while preserving the relaxed coastal character that has made the property so beloved.
Elegant yet unpretentious, peaceful yet connected, Comfort Resort Blue Pacific captures the essence of a true coastal retreat, where the ocean is always within reach, the atmosphere is effortlessly calming and every stay feels a little like coming home.
Book your stay today, at Comfort Resort Blue Pacific!
bluepacificresort.com.au
Jill Johansen, International and Domestic Travel Consultant at Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant. Photo supplied
After almost three decades with Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant, International and Domestic Travel Consultant Jill Johansen still finds joy in helping clients bring their travel dreams to life.
A lifelong fascination with travel first inspired Jill to enter the industry in 1970, where she applied for roles as both a travel consultant and ground hostess.
“I thought if I was unable to travel all the time, I should plan and bring clients’ dreams to life,” she said.
Jill later joined Harvey World Travel, now Helloworld Travel, after being repeatedly encouraged by a former manager to come on board.
“He kept saying he had a uniform hanging behind the door for me whenever I decided to come and work for them,” she laughed.
Over the years, Jill has witnessed enormous changes across the travel industry, but says the excitement of travel has never faded.
“There have been so many memorable moments throughout my career,” she said.
“I never get tired of watching aircraft thundering down runways at airports and people watching. I always imagine where people are travelling to when you see all their happy faces.”
Jill said trust, loyalty and personalised service continue to set Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant apart.
“We treasure customer and staff loyalty as a priority always,” she said.
“Repeat business is everything and clients need to know that trust is everything.”
Having travelled extensively herself, Jill lists Africa, Antarctica, Greece and Malta among her favourite destinations, while seeing polar bears in the wild remains firmly on her bucket list!
Daneal Rokic, Travel Sales Consultant and Team Leader at Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant. Photos supplied
After first joining Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant in 1993, Daneal Rokic is now celebrating more than 30 years in the travel industry.
Starting out working Thursday nights and Saturday mornings at the Mt Pleasant office, Ms Rokic later secured a full-time role in 1996 and has remained part of the Helloworld team ever since.
Her passion for travel first began as a teenager after being selected for Mackay City Council’s sister city exchange trip to Matsuura, Japan, in 1992.
“That travel experience opened my eyes to a new world,” Ms Rokic said.
“I knew I wanted to explore the world, and the travel industry was the perfect platform.”
Throughout her career, Ms Rokic has helped countless clients plan holidays around the globe while also creating unforgettable travel memories of her own.
One experience that has stayed with her was completing the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in South America.
“It was definitely the hardest thing I’ve ever done, and to get to the end of walking for four days to view the incredible site at sunrise was something I will never forget,” she said.
Ms Rokic said the supportive team culture and family feel at Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant had played a major role in her long-standing career with the company.
She said destinations including Japan, Vietnam, Thailand and New Zealand were currently among the most popular choices for travellers, and her hot travel tip? Air tags, air tags, air tags!
Johanna Wood, Groups and Training Manager at Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant. Photo supplied
Johanna Wood’s love of travel began at a young age, and nearly two decades later, that passion continues to shape her career as Groups and Training Manager at Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant.
Having worked with the business for 19 years, Johanna joined Helloworld Travel, then Harvey World Travel, just two years after finishing school.
“I always knew I wanted to work in the travel industry,” she said.
“I began working at Helloworld Travel just two years out of school and I have never looked back.”
One of Johanna’s favourite parts of the role is hosting group tours and travelling alongside clients on hosted journeys.
“Being able to travel with our customers and share those experiences with them is one of my favourite things,” she enthused.
Johanna said the agency’s locally owned and operated structure helped create a close-knit team culture and strong relationships with customers.
“It’s really special to have the owners of the business working alongside the team,” she said.
“That allows us to build personal relationships with our customers and create a really supportive culture within the workplace.”
When it comes to current travel trends, Johanna said Japan remained one of the most sought-after destinations.
“I took my family there earlier this year and it has to be one of the most exciting places I’ve visited,” she said.
Johanna also noted cruising, both river and ocean, continue to grow in popularity among travellers seeking unique experiences around the world!
Stacey Brownsey, Manager of Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant. Photo supplied
For Stacey Brownsey, travel has never been just a career; it has always been part of who she is.
Now Manager of Helloworld Travel, Stacey has spent almost 25 years helping Mackay travellers explore the world, after first entering the industry through a trainee position advertised in the Daily Mercury in 2001.
Her passion for travel began long before that.
“I’ve loved travel from a very early age,” she said.
“I started travelling internationally through sport when I was 15, and I also grew up listening to stories from my mum about living and working in Canada in the 1960s. Travel has always been a big part of my life; it’s something that really feels like it’s in my blood.”
Over the years, Stacey has helped clients plan everything from family holidays and tailor-made European itineraries to cruises and once-in-a-lifetime adventures.
She said some of the most memorable moments in her career came during the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, when travel professionals worked around the clock to support stranded travellers as borders rapidly closed across the world.
“There were nights where I’d wake up in the middle of the night taking calls from clients overseas while airline availability was disappearing before our eyes,” she said.
“Despite the pressure, we were able to help get our clients home safely. That level of care and commitment goes beyond what people expect, but it’s also what I love most about this industry — being able to genuinely help people when they need it most.”
Stacey believes the business’s strong local foundation has played a major role in its success across the Mackay region.
“Being locally owned and operated has always been something really special about our business,” she said.
“Over the years we’ve continued to evolve through innovation, training and industry changes, and I think the resilience of our team has been one of our greatest strengths.”
She said travellers were increasingly seeking more meaningful and personalised experiences, with nature-based travel and smaller group journeys continuing to grow in popularity.
“We’re seeing more people wanting unique, off-the-beaten-track destinations and experiences connected to wildlife and nature,” she said.
“Cruising has also become incredibly diverse now — whether people want a small, intimate ship or a large ocean liner, there’s really something for every style of traveller.”
Having travelled extensively herself, Stacey names Finland as one of her favourite destinations, while trekking to see gorillas in Rwanda remains high on her bucket list.
Her areas of specialty include family travel to Japan, tailor-made European holidays, and customised Canada and USA itineraries.
And after decades in the industry, her favourite travel tip remains wonderfully simple:
“Always travel with ear plugs,”
For more than four decades, the travel industry has evolved in remarkable ways; from handwritten tickets and printed brochures to instant online bookings and digital itineraries. Yet despite the rapid pace of change, one thing has remained constant: the value of trusted, local travel expertise.
At Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant, that personal approach to travel has remained at the heart of the business through every era of change.
The late 1980s and early 1990s marked a major turning point for Australian travellers. International holidays, once considered a luxury, became increasingly accessible as airfares grew more competitive and travel opportunities expanded. Families, couples and solo travellers began exploring the world in greater numbers, often relying on experienced travel agents to guide them through passports, visas and complex itineraries.
During this time, travel planning was deeply personal. Clients would sit down face-to-face with their travel consultant, discussing dream destinations, budgets and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Trust and professional knowledge were central to every booking; values that continue to define Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant today.
As the industry moved into the late 1990s and early 2000s, the arrival of the internet transformed how people researched and booked travel. Email replaced fax machines, online schedules became accessible and digital ticketing emerged, creating greater convenience for travellers. While technology streamlined many parts of the process, the role of experienced travel professionals became even more important; helping clients navigate airline changes, interpret information and create seamless travel experiences tailored to their individual needs.
The following decades saw travel become increasingly experienced-driven. Travellers began seeking meaningful moments and personalised adventures rather than simply ticking destinations off a list. Social media inspired new journeys, while smartphones changed the way people planned, booked and shared their travels.
With more choice came more complexity, and the importance of knowledgeable, local guidance only continued to grow.
More recently, global disruptions and changing travel requirements have highlighted just how valuable professional support can be. Travellers are now prioritising flexibility, reassurance and expert advice more than ever before. Throughout these changes, businesses like Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant have continued supporting clients every step of the way, providing clarity, advocacy and peace of mind when it matters most.
Looking back across four decades, the story of travel is one of innovation, connection and unforgettable experiences. While technology and trends will continue to evolve, the heart of great travel planning remains unchanged: understanding people, listening to their goals and helping turn travel dreams into reality.
As Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant celebrates its longstanding place within the region’s travel community, one thing is clear; trusted local advice and personalised service continue to matter more than ever.
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