Mackay is ready to bat above and beyond this August, as the Great Barrier Reef Arena steps up to host men’s international cricket for the very first time. This landmark event, featuring top-tier teams like Australia and South Africa, promises to ignite the city’s passion for the sport while showcasing the region’s vibrant spirit.
To celebrate, the Discover Mackay Cricket Scorecard Challenge invites locals and visitors alike to explore the stunning sights and hidden gems of the region through a fun, interactive adventure. With exciting prizes on offer and a full calendar of thrilling matches, including women’s and men’s contests.
Mackay is ready to shine on the international sporting stage, creating unforgettable memories and economic boosts, all while inviting everyone to step up to the crease and join in the excitement.
Mackay is gearing up for a historic August as the Great Barrier Reef Arena hosts its first men’s international cricket matches, celebrating the sport and the region with an exciting community challenge and a lineup of thrilling games. Photo credit: Hannah Mcnamara
Mackay is ready to hit cricket for six this August, with international matches, family fun, and a brand-new way to explore our beautiful backyard.
For the first time, the Great Barrier Reef Arena will host men’s international cricket, and Mackay Regional Council is marking the milestone with the Discover Mackay Cricket Scorecard Challenge in an adventure that combines sport, sightseeing, and more than $5000 in prizes.
The challenge runs from August 7 to 31, encouraging locals and visitors to “step up to the crease” and rack up runs by completing activities across the region. Whether you’re going solo or teaming up with family and friends, every challenge completed adds to your score.
Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson officially launched the program at Fifth Lane, calling it a perfect match for the city’s biggest-ever month of cricket.
“It’s the biggest month for cricket in Mackay we’ve ever seen. We’ve got T20s and ODIs, including Australia playing South Africa, all at the Great Barrier Reef Arena. I think this will be one of the most celebrated months for cricket ever.”
On the scorecard challenge itself, the Mayor said, “Pick up one of these scorecards from the council website, the Arena, Southern Cross Austereo, or any council service centre, and get as many runs as you can by completing challenges. There’s about $5,000 in prize money to be won.
“It’s a fantastic way to celebrate cricket here in Mackay this August.”
Adrian Young, CEO of Harrup Park and General Manager of the Great Barrier Reef Arena, said the scale of events this month was unprecedented.
“It’s the biggest month of cricket we’ve ever held in the region and the first time we’ve hosted men’s international games at the Great Barrier Reef Arena.
“We’ve got three contests with Australia A women taking on India A women in T20s. Then at the end of the month, the Australian men’s team will play South Africa in ODIs on August 22 and 24.”
He added that tickets were designed to make it easy for families to get involved.
“Tickets are just $20 for adults and $5 for kids… it’s going to be a great day out.
“Get your cricket scorecard, see the sights around Mackay, and enjoy the cricket.”
The buzz is also being felt by the next generation of players.
Eleven-year-old twins Spencer and Scarlett Faulkner are among the youngest fans ready to soak up the action.
Spencer said, “I’ve been playing cricket since I was four and it’s unbelievable to see Australia’s men’s team come to take on South Africa at the Great Barrier Reef Arena.”
Scarlett is looking forward to the Australia vs India T20 clash.
“I’m very excited for the Australia versus India T20 cricket game at the Great Barrier Reef Arena. I even got to see Alyssa Healy last night at the ten years of celebrating Pioneer Valley Girls Cricket.”
Her advice to other girls thinking about picking up a bat, is simply, “Just get in there.”
With prizes including Cricket Australia merch packs, beach towels, mini bats, and jigsaw puzzles, there’s plenty of incentive to explore.
Participants can download a scorecard at www.mackay.qld.gov.au/scorecard or collect one from the Great Barrier Reef Arena, Southern Cross Austereo, any council service centre, or local library.
Mackay’s biggest cricket month kicks off with international games and a Discover Mackay Scorecard Challenge offering $5,000+ in prizes. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
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