Mackay’s riverfront is set to become livelier than ever, as council shifts its long-running Waterfront Action Plan into an activation phase designed to bring families, visitors and local businesses back to the heart of the city.
Over the past few months, the riverfront has undergone a steady, multi-stage clean-up aimed at restoring safety, pride and community confidence in the area. With significant progress made, the focus is now on breathing new life into the River Wharves precinct through a fee-free activation program.
The initiative invites food trucks, buskers, fitness instructors, recreational providers and community groups to host regular activities in the revitalised space, transforming it into a lively hub for connection and recreation.
Mayor Greg Williamson said there’s been “tremendous activity down there,” with local food vendors collaborating to “really bring the place to life.”
“There is a baker that has been selling sourdough and pastries on Saturdays, and that has grown to include a smoothie van and a coffee van,” he said.
“And they’re not alone – there’s a Filipino street food van that’s joining forces with lots of other food trucks to activate the space weekly too.
“It fantastic to see these businesses collaborating so successfully and the results give us something amazing to build on.
“Council is not only backing these food vendors by offering free bookings – we want to build the atmosphere.
“That’s why we are now putting the call out to everyone from buskers and fitness groups to community groups looking to hold events and activities – this is your space and we love that it has been returned to the community.”
Static vending permit fees and park booking fees will be waived for River Wharves bookings until June 30, 2026, with fitness and recreational bookings also available at Bluewater Quay.
For bookings or information, visit mackaywaterfront.com.au or email mackaywaterfront@mackay.qld.gov.au.
CAPTION: Mackay’s revitalised River Wharves is entering a new activation phase, with council waiving fees to encourage food vendors, performers and community groups to bring fresh energy and activity back to the waterfront. Photo source: Boat Ramp Bakehouse
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2026 Mackay and Whitsunday Life Pty Ltd.
