Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Mackay’s flagship International Women’s Day celebration, the Zonta Mackay & Area International Women’s Day High Tea, returns once again as a sell-out, affirming its place as one of the most anticipated gatherings on the social calendar.
For 33 years, Zonta has championed the empowerment of women and girls both locally and globally. This year, organisers are thrilled to announce a reimagined High Tea, transformed into a garden party inspired setting with a grand entrance, exquisite florals, and Instagram-worthy moments at every turn.
The morning will unfold as a celebration of leadership, achievement, and aspiration, inspired by the 2026 UN International Women’s Day theme: Balance the Scales. Guests will be immersed in an atmosphere of elegance, warmth, and connection, and will delight in a traditional, impeccably presented high tea. Inspiring guest speakers, aligned with this year’s International Women’s Day theme, will share their stories, while attendees can engage in raffles and a highly anticipated silent auction, supporting Zonta’s ongoing initiatives.
From scholarships to awards, these programs provide tangible support to local women and girls, while also contributing to global projects. Remarkably, two thirds of the funds raised remain in the region, directly nurturing and empowering women and girls across Mackay.
A highlight of the event is always the Young Women in Leadership Award, recognising a local young woman making a meaningful impact and demonstrating extraordinary promise. According to organisers, listening to these speeches and witnessing the passion of emerging leaders is among the most stirring moments of the day, offering a glimpse of the future and a chance to celebrate the next generation of changemakers.
Adding a playful and personal twist this year, guests are invited to bring their own teacup and saucer, whether vintage, elegant, quirky, or delightfully outrageous. This charming detail allows attendees to express their personality and flair, with prizes awarded for the most creative cups.
Attendees span generations and backgrounds, united by a shared purpose of connection, support, and empowerment. With tickets already completely sold out, the event reflects the enduring love Mackay holds for this celebration of women.
The Zonta Mackay International Women’s Day High Tea promises to be more beautiful, more inspiring, and more heartfelt than ever, yet at its heart, it remains a celebration of women, a sanctuary for connection, and a platform to honour the remarkable achievements of today and the limitless promise of tomorrow.
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.
