March 27, 2026

Disney In The Tropics! Mackay To Host Australia’s First Disney Century Of Magic Exhibition

Mackay is set to make history as the first Australian city to host the global blockbuster Disney: The Exhibition – A Century of Magic, a world-renowned celebration of 100 years of storytelling.

Previously showcased in major international cities including Munich, London, Chicago, Seoul, Paris and Madrid, the exhibition will arrive in Mackay on December 4th and run for five months at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre.

The immersive exhibition will feature rare artefacts from The Walt Disney Company, iconic costumes, behind the scenes insights and interactive displays that trace a century of beloved characters and films.

Mayor Greg Williamson of Mackay Regional Council said the announcement marked a landmark moment for the region.

“This is a magical day for Mackay, for Queensland and for Australia,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Mackay will be the first city in Australia to host Disney: The Exhibition – A Century of Magic. The exhibition will open on December 4 and run for five months.

“It has travelled to major cities around the world, including Philadelphia, Paris, London and Madrid, and now it is coming to Mackay.”

Mayor Williamson said securing the exhibition was the result of a strategic pitch by the council’s events team, and would help place Mackay firmly on the international tourism map.

“We are expecting at least 100,000 visitors over the five months,” he said.

“This is about introducing Mackay to the world and giving people the Disney experience they have been waiting for.”

Mayor Williamson said he hoped the announcement would spark curiosity across the country.

“I hope people in cities like Melbourne and Sydney are asking, ‘why Mackay’,” he said.
“The answer to that is simple. Come and see it for yourself and you will understand why it’s here.”

The exhibition will be staged at the MECC, with international crews working alongside local staff to deliver the event.

“Our team at the MECC is ready to deliver a world class event at a world class entertainment centre,” Mayor Williamson said.

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the announcement represented a major milestone for the city and the state.

“This is a wonderful and exciting moment for our region,” Mr Dalton said.

“From December through to May, Mackay will become the centre of Disney in Australia,” he said.

“That means increased visitors, more activity for local businesses and a boost for cafes, accommodation providers and tourism operators.”

He said the event aligned with Queensland’s vision of strengthening its major events calendar.

“We are incredibly excited about the magic that will unfold here in Mackay,” he said.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for locals, for Queenslanders and for visitors from across Australia and overseas to experience something truly special.”

With tens of thousands of Disney fans expected to travel to the region, the exhibition is poised to deliver a magical boost to tourism, business and community pride while placing Mackay firmly in the global spotlight.