Council is inviting the community to help shape the future of walking, riding and micromobility across the region through its draft Mackay Region Active Transport and Micromobility Plan 2025-2036.
The draft plan sets a long-term vision to make Mackay a walking and riding-friendly region, with safe, convenient and enjoyable paths designed for our tropical climate.
It aims to create a network that connects people to places that matter – schools, shops, parks and public transport – while supporting healthier lifestyles and reducing transport emissions.
Council’s Regional Infrastructure Strategic Advisory Committee Co-chair Cr Karen May said that our region had a growing population which was expected to increase by about 15,000 residents to almost 145,000 by 2036.
“This growth is expected mostly in urban areas where active transport can ease congestion,” Cr May said.
“Active transport isn’t just about environmental responsibility – it also has tremendous economic benefits,” she said.
“On average, every dollar invested in walking interventions returns almost $13 in benefits with traffic decongestion, health and environment. Cycling infrastructure investments also return about five dollars in assorted benefits for every dollar spent.
“This plan considers a lot of key factors, including our younger demographic that is reliant on active transport, our ageing population needing more accessible, walkable neighbourhoods and the rise of micromobility, such as e-scooters.
“With these factors in mind, it’s no surprise that the community’s top priorities included more separated cycleways, wider footpaths and safer crossings.”
Cr May said the community’s input has been instrumental in shaping the plan.
“We’ve heard loud and clear that residents want to walk and ride more – but they need safer, more convenient options to do so,” she said.
This draft follows extensive consultation, including:
• A public survey from March 31 to April 27, 2025, where residents shared their experiences and ideas.
• A targeted stakeholder workshop in May 2025 with schools, youth groups, accessibility advocates and bicycle organisations.
• Survey insights revealed strong support for active transport, with:
• 91.3 per cent of respondents walking for five minutes or more.
• 51 per cent riding in the week prior to the survey.
The draft plan is now open for public comment at connectingmackay.com.au/active-transport, with consultation running from now until 11.59pm, Sunday, November 16, 2025.
Whether you walk, ride, roll or scoot – this is your chance to help design a region that moves better for everyone.
Hard copies on the draft plan are also available at all Mackay Regional Council Libraries and Customer Service Centres.
The draft plan sets a long-term vision to make Mackay a walking and riding-friendly region, with safe, convenient and enjoyable paths designed for our tropical climate. Photo supplied
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