April 17, 2026

Event Guide: Friday 17th April

Friday 17th April

Exhibitions Opening Night

6pm

Residents are encouraged to come along and experience an evening of art and conversation as Mackay Regional Council and Artspace Mackay launch three new exhibitions on Friday, April 17. Officially opened by Mayor Greg Williamson, the free community event offers visitors the chance to be among the first to view the exhibitions Matters of Time: Contemporary Metal Practices, Joshua Searle: Poco a poco, se va lejos (Little by little, you go far) and Judy Watson: skeletons. Attendees can also meet visiting artists, curators, gallery staff and volunteers, making it a welcoming opportunity for art lovers and curious locals alike.

Artspace Mackay

Saturday 18th April

Friday Pop up Jumbo Sale

9am (Friday and Saturday)

Bargain hunters are invited to stop by a community jumbo sale this weekend, offering a wide range of items at affordable prices. Running from 9am to 4pm on Friday, April 17, and 9am to 3pm on Saturday, April 18, the sale will feature plenty of treasures including plants, jigsaw puzzles, books, clothing, toys, kitchenware and craft items, both new and pre-loved. Locals are encouraged to come along, browse the stalls and enjoy the thrill of discovering a great bargain while supporting a community event.

Marian Town Centre

Book Of The Month

10am

Art lovers are invited to take a closer look at Artspace Mackay’s Book of the Month for April during a special free viewing on Saturday, April 18 at 10am. Held in the Foyer Gallery at Artspace Mackay in the Civic Precinct, the popular program allows visitors to explore a featured artist’s book up close, page by page, with the guidance of knowledgeable Artspace volunteers. The monthly event offers a unique opportunity to experience artist books in an interactive way. Attendance is free, but registration is encouraged via the Artspace Mackay website.

Artspace Mackay

Sunday 19th April

Slade Point Community Markets

8am

The Slade Point Community Markets invite residents to enjoy a relaxed morning of nature, creativity and local connection at the Slade Point Community Gardens. Held on the third Sunday of each month from 8am to 11am, the markets feature local stallholders offering handmade goods, fresh produce and treats, alongside food vans, fresh coffee and live music. Visitors can also join a gentle morning yoga or stretch session, while children enjoy family-friendly activities. Community members are encouraged to bring friends, family and picnic blankets and spend the morning supporting local businesses. Dogs are welcome on leads, with owners asked to clean up after their pets.

Slade Point Community Gardens

Tuesday 21st April

Community Coffee Shout – With Shirlz Area Specialist

9am

Residents are invited to enjoy a free coffee and friendly catch-up at a community coffee shout hosted by local real estate specialist Shirlz Russell. From 9am on Tuesday, April 21, the first 50 coffees will be covered at The Avenue Cafe, giving locals a chance to connect and start the morning together. With no conditions attached, the simple gesture is Shirlz’s way of thanking the North Mackay community. Locals are encouraged to drop by, grab a coffee and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere while the coffees last.

Avenue Cafe Mackay

1- Artspace Mackay holding Book Of The Month on April 19th. Photo supplied


2 –Joshua Searle’s exhibition Poco a Poco launches on April 17th. Photo supplied

3- Slade point community market will take place on April 19th. Photo source: Facebook

4- Shirlz Russell will be shouting the first 50 coffees at The Avenue Café on April 21st. Photo source: Facebook