Mackay’s First Permanent Disc Golf Course Takes Flight At John Breen Park

Mackay’s sporting landscape has welcomed a new addition with the official opening of the region’s first permanent disc golf course at John Breen District Park last Friday, the 9th of January.

Councillor Ash-Lee Johnson officially opened the nine-hole course, which has been made possible through a $30,000 Community Investment Grant from Mackay Regional Council. The new facility marks a significant milestone for the Mackay Disc Golf Club and provides residents with a fresh, accessible outdoor recreation option.

Designed to cater for players of all skill levels, the course offers an easy entry point for first-time players while still providing a challenge for more experienced competitors. Disc golf follows a similar concept to traditional golf, with players aiming to throw a frisbee-style disc into a metal basket in as few throws as possible. The sport is widely regarded as simple to learn, social and a great form of exercise.

Cr Johnson said the course was a valuable addition to Mackay’s growing range of recreational facilities.

“It’s really exciting to be here today at the opening of the disc golf park. It’s such a great addition for Mackay to have a new sport become a permanent fixture, giving everyone the opportunity to come along and have a go,” she said.

She said disc golf’s broad appeal made it well suited to the region’s active lifestyle.

“It really does appeal to a wide audience — from kids through to adults — anyone who wants to get outdoors and enjoy active regional living. It’s something new, inclusive and accessible for our community,” Cr Johnson said.

Mackay Disc Golf Club president Andrew Wells said the permanent course would have a major impact on the club’s ability to grow and retain players.

“One of our biggest challenges has been retaining people, because they’d come along to a day and then have nothing to do until the next event,” Mr Wells said.

“Now, we’ve finally got a course in the ground.”

He said John Breen District Park was an ideal location due to its accessibility, central position and existing multi-use design.

“It’s a multi-sport facility with walking paths, it’s accessible to everybody and it’s beautifully kept,” he said.

Safety was a key consideration in the course design, with mandatory throwing directions implemented near walking paths to minimise risks to other park users.

The project was supported by the dedication of Mackay Disc Golf Club members, along with funding contributions from Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal and support from Mount Pleasant Tavern and Kingfisher Disc Golf.

Cr Johnson acknowledged the collaborative effort behind the project and congratulated those involved for their persistence.

“These conversations have been ongoing for some time, and it’s a credit to the dedication of the club and everyone involved that it has reached this stage,” she said.

Looking ahead, the Mackay Disc Golf Club is now in discussions with the North Queensland Games about hosting an event in Mackay in 2026, which could further showcase the sport and the region.

More information about the course is available on Mackay Regional Council’s website, and residents interested in trying disc golf are encouraged to connect with the Mackay Disc Golf Club.

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Mackay’s first permanent disc golf course has officially opened at John Breen District Park, with Councillor Ash-Lee Johnson welcoming the new community facility made possible through council funding and the valued support of sponsors including Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal. Photo source: Mackay Regional Council

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