Friday 5th September
Crochet & Conversation
9am
Drop in for a relaxed morning of crocheting, coffee and conversation with friendly Northern Beaches locals at the Beachfront Bar & Restaurant on Bucasia Esplanade. Everyone is welcome—whether you're a seasoned crocheter, a beginner, or just love a good chat over coffee. Bring your own tools or borrow from the communal box. It’s all about connection, creativity, and community.
Beachfront Bar & Restaurant on Bucasia Esplanade
Friday Guided Walks
10am
Discover the wonders of the Botanic Gardens on a guided walk led by an experienced Gardens Guide. These leisurely one-hour strolls offer insights into local plants and unique garden features, making it the perfect way to connect with nature. Ideal for all ages, the walks provide both education and relaxation in a beautiful setting.
Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens, 9 Lagoon St , Mackay
Century Batteries PDRC Championships
3pm
Motorsport fans are set for an action-packed weekend as Palmyra Dragway hosts Round 5 of the PDRC Championships. Friday’s Test & Tune session kicks off the excitement before Saturday racing takes over the strip. With junior dragsters, roaring engines, and high-octane competition, it’s a showcase of speed and skill not to be missed. Tickets available via ticketbooth.com.au
Palmyra Dragway
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 6th September
EVITA
2pm
MMCP returns to the stage with Evita, the powerful story of Argentina’s iconic First Lady, Eva Peron. From humble beginnings to international fame, her journey is one of ambition, charisma, and controversy. Featuring captivating music and a dramatic retelling of her rise and fall, this production promises an unforgettable theatrical experience. Recommended for ages 12 and up. Tickets available via themecc.com
MECC
Golding Kid’s Colour Ride - BMA River 2 Reef Ride
3pm
Mackay’s biggest cycle festival, the BMA River 2 Reef Ride, is back with a full weekend of fun on two wheels. The festival begins with the Golding Kids Colour Ride, offering children the chance to ride or scoot through the Botanic Gardens with plenty of encouragement along the way. A celebration of fitness, family, and community spirit.
Mackay Botanical Gardens Meadow Amphitheatre
Family Fun Afternoon
3pm
A family fun afternoon promises plenty of excitement with a jumping castle, merry-go-round, balloons, slushies, fairy floss, and more. Children can enjoy a variety of activities, with a $30 wristband offering access to one of everything except face painting. It’s a lively day out designed to keep the whole family entertained.
Hotel Eton
Sunday 7th September
BMA River 2 Reef Ride
5am
Mackay’s biggest cycling festival, the BMA River 2 Reef Ride, returns in 2025 with three exciting distances to choose from: 30km, 60km, or 100km. Riders of all levels can take part while supporting two great causes, with profits benefiting BMA CQ Rescue and Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay. A signature event for cycling enthusiasts and the community alike.
Mackay Botanical Gardens Meadow Amphitheatre
Sweet Repeats Pre-Loved Clothing Market
8am
Locals are invited to a community market tackling fast fashion while keeping wardrobes refreshed. With plenty of stalls, hundreds of bargains, and a $2 entry, it’s the perfect place to buy, sell, and recycle fashion. Visitors can also enjoy a sausage sizzle by Mackay City Girl Guides, coffee from Papa Bens, and the chance to win shopping dollars.
Mackay Showgrounds
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
Monday 8th September
Phoneless Game With Ms Z – Free Play and Learn
3pm
Freed Class invites children and families to explore traditional games in a fun, screen-free environment. Ms Z will demonstrate a range of games that help kids discover new talents, while parents can relax and enjoy the session. Free classes run monthly, offering an engaging way for the community to connect, play, and encourage creativity.
Jubilee Community Centre
Tuesday 9th September
Queens Park Circle
9am
A casual gathering welcomes local mums to relax, connect, and share experiences while their children play freely. With no expectations and a friendly, inclusive atmosphere, it’s a space to chat, swap tips, or simply take a break. A free, low pressure way to get out of the house and leave feeling a little lighter.
Queens Park
BMA Kidspace
9.30am
BMA Kidspace at Artspace Mackay offers toddlers aged 0–5 a hands-on introduction to art through creative sessions and live music. Children can explore, make art, sing, and dance in a cooperative, fun-filled environment, with drop-in sessions running throughout the morning. A free, engaging experience for little ones to enjoy art and creativity.
Artspace Mackay
Wednesday 10th September
Party In The Park 2025
9am
Mackay Regional Council and Mackay Family Support Alliance invite families to a free Party in the Park celebrating Child Protection Week. The event features children’s activities, face painting, jumping castles, glitter tattoos, and opportunities to connect with local family services, creating a fun and engaging day for the whole community.
Queens Park