Event Guide 26 September

Friday 26th September

Lagoon Life – School Holiday Activity
10am
Discover the hidden wonders of Mackay’s freshwater lagoons at the Lagoon Life school holiday drop-in sessions. Explore trays of dragonfly and damselfly nymphs, diving bugs, tiny fish, shrimp, and more—collected by Garden Friends and displayed with water plants that provide their habitat. Magnifying glasses will be on hand so children and families can get a close look at these fascinating creatures without getting wet. A free, hands-on way to connect with nature
Botanic Gardens Meeting Room.

Kokedama Workshop
10.30am
Learn to create your own kokedama ball and macramé hanger in a hands-on workshop perfect for beginners and craft lovers alike. Kokedama are a unique living art form that add greenery and charm to any space, indoors or out. All materials are supplied on the day, with participation just $5 per person. A fun, affordable way to get creative and take home something beautiful.
3 Sarah Street West Mackay

Country & Western Night – Family Carnival
5.30pm
Mackay Showgrounds will come alive for a Country & Western Family Carnival Theme Night. Enjoy mechanical bull rides, a free petting zoo, games, food, and a donut-eating competition. Unlimited ride passes are $45, with free entry for all. Dust off your boots and join the fun for an evening filled with country charm, family laughter, and entertainment for all ages.
Mackay Showgrounds

Friday Flow
5pm
Friday Flow brings fun, music, and creativity to the community. Families can enjoy a six-metre air track for the kids, vibrant decorations, live music with instruments to join in, art and craft activities, plus delicious food, chai, and botanical drinks. It’s a space to relax, connect, and celebrate together—a true community gift filled with good vibes.
Bluewater Quay, Mackay

Exhibitions Opening
6pm
Artspace Mackay and Mackay Regional Council invite the community to the launch of three new exhibitions: En Plein Air, Leonie Wood: aMuse, and Ripples Through Time. Officially opened by Mayor Cr Greg Williamson, the event offers the chance to be among the first to view the shows and connect with visiting artists, curators, and gallery staff. Free entry—register online.
Artspace Mackay, Civic Precinct.

LIVE Music
6-9pm
Enjoy LIVE music every Friday at Ocean International – it’s a performance you won’t want to miss! Pizzas & tapas available on the deck! Call 4957 2044 to make your booking!
Ocean International

Saturday 27th September

Crochet Workshop | Art In The Park
9am
Join the Crochet & Connect Workshop with Tracey Robb Arts at Art in the Park 2025. Create springtime flower brooches in a relaxed, social setting. All materials are provided, and the $5 workshop fee covers supplies. Suitable for participants aged 12 and up. Enjoy coffee, treats, and conversation while expanding your crochet skills from 9:00–11:30am.
Beachfront Bar & Restaurant.

Exhibition Floor Talk
10:30am
Artspace Mackay invites the community to explore En Plein Air with Curator Nathan Schroeder and featured artists in the main gallery. This exhibition traces the journeys of contemporary Australian and New Zealand painters, from alpine NSW to Central and Northern Queensland, featuring landscapes of Mackay and surrounds. Free tickets available online.
Artspace Mackay, Civic Precinct

True Street Cars Autobarn Meet
5pm
Mackay car enthusiasts are invited to the next True Street Meet at Autobarn from 5pm on Saturday. Come along to check out impressive rides, connect with friends, and enjoy a vibrant community atmosphere. Attendees are reminded to keep the event safe and respectful so future meets can continue. It promises to be another great gathering for car fans across the region.
Autobarn Mackay

Sunday 28th September

Choccie Milk Run and Ocean Swim
5.45am
A 10km Handicap run has been added to the event alongside the Choccie Milk Run and Ocean Swim. Runners should arrive at 5:45am for a 6:00am start—bring your STRAVA 10km PB if you’d like it included in the handicap calculation. The Choccie Milk Run/Walk begins anytime, and the Ocean Swim kicks off at 7:15am.
Mackay Surf Life Saving Club

Marian Bowls Jumbo Sale
7am
The Marian Ladies Bowls Club is holding a Jumble Sale at the Marian Bowls Club, Reg Smith Street, from 7:00am to 1:00pm. Enjoy bargains on household items, books, toys, clothes, plants, craft, home-made cakes, and a sausage sizzle. Morning tea is available, with all proceeds supporting the club.
Marian Bowls Club, Reg Smith Street

Dance Fit With Elena
9am
Join the weekly dance sessions every Sunday at 9am at Bluewater Quay, River Street, Mackay, next to Forgan Bridge. For $5 entry, participants can enjoy an hour of global-inspired music and movement, from Latin beats to Irish rhythms. Suitable for all skill levels, the outdoor event encourages fun, fitness, and connection, with a backup location at CQU on rainy days.
Bluewater Quay, River Street, Mackay, next to Forgan Bridge

QENDOMeet Mackay
9am
Join Mackay Facilitator Scout for a QENDO meetup, a face-to-face support group for anyone affected by endometriosis, adenomyosis, PCOS, or infertility. Connect with others, share experiences, learn management strategies, and find emotional support in a safe, compassionate environment. These meetups provide understanding, advice, and community for those navigating chronic pelvic pain and fertility challenges.
The Grounds Collective Bucasia

Monday 29th September

Ballroom and Latin Class
6.30pm
Join Monday night International-style Ballroom and Latin dance classes at St. Charles Anglican Church Hall, West Mackay. Beginners and intermediate dancers are welcome to learn and practice for $10 per person. Classes start at 6:30pm. For more information, contact Dave on 0401 290 109.
St Charles Anglican Church

Wednesday 1st October

Avanti Wonderers – Walking Group
7am
Join a relaxed, fortnightly walk around the Goose Ponds and enjoy the fresh air and friendly company. All are welcome, members or not. Walks depart 6:50am from Avanti Gym or 7:00am from Goose Ponds Park (Willets Road). Please arrive 10 minutes early if meeting at the centre.
7 discovery lane, Mackay

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