The Mackay Northern Beaches will soon come alive with colour, music, and creativity as the community gears up for the launch of Art in the Park 2025 on Saturday, the 20th of September. This brand-new community arts event will unfold across Bucasia Esplanade, Shoal Point, and the Northern Beaches Community Hall, inviting people of all ages to gather, create, and celebrate the spirit of the Northern Beaches.
Delivered by the Northern Beaches Community Network and the Mackay Northern Beaches Lions Club, the event has been made possible through a 2025 Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) grant. RADF is a partnership between the Queensland Government and Mackay Regional Council to support local arts and culture in regional Queensland.
A celebration of both creativity and connection, the one-day festival offers a diverse program filled with hands-on art workshops, musical experiences, and community-based activities in some of the region’s most scenic outdoor spaces.
“Art in the Park is about more than art—it’s about belonging,” said Rebecca Cooper, Project Lead and member of the Northern Beaches Community Network.
“It brings people together to share creative experiences, make memories and celebrate our beautiful part of the world in meaningful, joyful ways.”
The day’s program has something for everyone, from young children to older adults. Workshops include nature mandalas, clay creations, kite making, gel plate printing with Print Bank, ceramic painting, eco-friendly art, and weaving. Artists like Kate Kennedy will lead acrylic painting sessions, and members of the Mackay Art Society will guide plein air oil painting. A highlight of the day will be “The Great Create Morning”, a free-flowing creative gathering in the parklands of Bucasia Esplanade.
Musical elements will play a key role, with live music performances, a Rhythm Circle, and a meditative Sound Journey. The Teen Music Jam Workshop, led by Kiersten Hart, will offer tweens and teens a chance to explore music, build confidence, and connect with others in a supportive space.
“Our Northern Beaches Community Roadmap identified a key need for connection and creativity in our community, with a specific focus on families, youth and our seniors. Here’s the gathering you’ve been looking for—support it,” said Antoinette du Toit, Co-Founder of the Northern Beaches Community Network.
Volunteers will be essential in bringing the event to life, and community members are encouraged to get involved. Volunteer roles range from event set-up and pack down to running welcome desks and assisting at workshops. Those interested in helping out can email nbcweek@gmail.com to sign up.
Bookings for workshops are now open, with most activities offered at a significantly reduced cost. Spots are limited, so early registration is recommended. Bookings are not required for The Great Create Morning, but organisers kindly ask attendees to bring a small cash donation, which will go directly back into supporting local arts initiatives. Card facilities will also be available on the day.
“I hope this event inspires people not just to attend, but to think more broadly about the role they can play in our community,” said Rebecca Cooper.
“For me, my motivation is the community I want my children to grow up in - one where they feel at home in their community, know the neighbourhood kids, and enjoy being active and creative in the great outdoors which are so plentiful in our area.”
Support from local organisations like the Mackay Northern Beaches Lions Club has played a pivotal role in making this project a reality.
“We’re incredibly proud to support this project and contribute to improving the wellbeing of the Northern Beaches,” said Doug Petersen, President of the Mackay Northern Beaches Lions Club.
“Lions is all about showing up in our community and this is a classic example of this - we know that when people are feeling good, they too are more likely to do good.”
To stay updated on Art in the Park 2025 and other local events, follow Northern Beaches Our Community on Facebook and Instagram. For more information about RADF or to apply for future arts funding, visit www.mackay.qld.gov.au/radf.
With art, music, nature, and community spirit at its heart, Art in the Park 2025 promises to be a memorable day of creativity and connection for all.
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