There Is Always Something To Do In Mackay

We’ve all heard it (or said it) – “there’s nothing to do in Mackay”.

I don’t believe it, as there is always something to do in Mackay. We live in the best region in Australia. To ensure that there’s always something to do in Mackay, council created the Invest Mackay Events and Conference Attraction Program (IMECA).

I’ve been a part of this committee since being elected to council in 2020. IMECA supports the attraction of major sporting and cultural events, concerts and conferences to stimulate the local economy. Since the program’s inception in 2015, it has funded 313 events and conferences, which has injected an estimated $221 million into the local economy.

Mackay Regional Council seeks to support major events and conferences that achieve the following outcomes:
• Raise awareness of Mackay as a desirable place to live, work, and visit.
• Attract overnight visitation and expenditure from outside the region and increase length-of-stay.
• Contribute to, enhance and grow the regional economy by generating new investment and developing business and industry.
• Fostering community pride.

Events and conferences represent a cost-effective way of promoting our region and its attractions, while also providing entertainment for locals. Major events and conferences help boost the economy and provide wellbeing, lifestyle and cultural benefits to residents and beyond. Moreover, as an event or conference grows, it boosts tourism numbers and creates fantastic industry growth opportunities for local operators such as event or conference facilities, hotels, restaurants and retailers. It’s a win-win all round!

And to promote these events (and all other events happening in the region), council also recently launched “Mackay Events”. From festivals to music gigs, art exhibitions to markets, we've got it covered. Whether you're a local looking for the latest thing or a visitor eager to make the most of this great region, Mackay Events is the perfect place to dive into the vibrant culture and entertainment scene of Mackay. There’s something for everyone. Go to mackayevents.com.au.

So, next time someone says to you, “there’s nothing to do in Mackay”, you know what to tell them.
Get out there and enjoy all that our amazing region has to offer.

By Cr Belinda Hassan

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