Amplify Mackay to help local businesses tap into event buzz

By Cr Belinda Hassan

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Mackay Regional Council has launched an exciting new initiative called Amplify Mackay, designed to help local businesses tap into the opportunities created by major events across our region.

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As a community, we already know that events bring energy, excitement and visitors into our region. From sporting fixtures and festivals, through to exhibitions, conferences and cultural events, they inject life into our city and create valuable economic opportunities for local businesses.

But Amplify Mackay is about taking that one step further.

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The program encourages businesses to align what they already do with major event periods – whether that’s through special offers, themed experiences, promotions, activations or simply creating a welcoming atmosphere for visitors and locals alike. Those offers are then promoted through the Amplify Mackay platform to event organisers, visitors and the wider community.

Importantly, businesses don’t need to spend a fortune or completely reinvent themselves. In fact, one of the strongest messages behind the campaign is that participation can be simple, affordable and effective.

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For cafés and restaurants, it might be a themed menu or event-night special. For retailers, it could mean decorating shopfronts, creating eye-catching displays or running a promotion tied to a major event. Accommodation providers might offer transport options, late check-outs or packages for visitors attending events.

There are some exciting events on the horizon that businesses can connect with, including Daly Bay Illuminate, QME, Mackay’s first international Test cricket match, Rhythm and the Reef, AFLW events linked to the Gold Coast SUNS partnership, and the highly anticipated Disney: The Exhibition – A Century of Magic, which is expected to attract strong visitation from December through to May 2027.

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One event I’m particularly looking forward to is Daly Bay Illuminate in July, when Wood and Victoria Streets will light up as part of the Festival of Arts. The event encourages businesses to get creative with lighting, displays and promotions, helping transform the City Centre into a vibrant night-time destination.

What I really appreciate about Amplify Mackay is that it recognises major events don’t just benefit one venue or precinct – the benefits can and should flow throughout the wider community. When visitors come here, their experience is shaped not just by the headline event, but by the hospitality, atmosphere and local pride they encounter across our region.

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This initiative is about showcasing the very best of Mackay – our creativity, our business community and our ability to work together to create memorable experiences for both visitors and locals. Get onboard at: https://mackayevents.com.au/events/discover-mackay-event-energy.  

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Let’s Chat – Council Connect

Residents can catch up with councillors in person at upcoming Let’s Chat - Council Connect sessions held across the region.  The next session will be held at Seaforth Bowls Club on June 2 at 5pm.

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Further details can be found on the Connecting Mackay website.

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