Together For Shelter

Mackay Event Offers Vital Lifeline As Cost Of Living Crisis Deepens

Feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to turn? You are not alone.

As the rising cost of living continues to grip the region, leaving more families and individuals struggling to stay afloat, a powerful community event is stepping in to offer not just help, but hope.

On Thursday, June 5, from 10am to 1pm, Together for Shelter, hosted by CASA, will transform Queens Park into a central hub of support and connection, uniting over 60 organisations to assist those in crisis.

While traditionally focused on homelessness, the event has evolved to embrace a broader mission, reaching anyone who may be feeling overwhelmed, isolated, or unsure where to turn.

Organisers are urging the community to recognise that the current economic strain is not just limited to the homeless population. Domestic violence, mental health challenges, rental stress, disability, youth disengagement, and financial hardship are all rising realities.

That’s why Together for Shelter aims to bridge the gap between services and the people who need them, offering a vital hand-up, not a hand-out.

“This event is about helping those that are facing some form of crisis and helping them take meaningful steps towards stability,” said CASA spokesperson, Dakota Sciascia.

“We want the broader community to know that if you're at risk of homelessness, that you can receive support…and no matter what the circumstance, there will be services available on the day to help you get through that crisis.”

Since its beginnings in 2012 as the Mackay Homeless Expo, Together for Shelter has grown into one of the region’s most inclusive and collaborative events. Attendees will have access to housing providers, mental health services, food support, family and youth outreach, essential giveaways for those sleeping rough, and even free services such as haircuts and chiropractic care.

The initiative is made possible by the support of key sponsors including BHP/BMA Mining, Mackay Regional Council, Daly Bay Coal Terminal, Souths Leagues Club, Magpies Sporting Club, and many others, alongside schools, local businesses, and service providers volunteering their time.

“The community spirit behind this is phenomenal,” organisers said.

“It’s not just about providing services, it’s about letting people know they are not alone.”

Whether someone is experiencing homelessness, struggling with escalating bills, recovering from trauma, or simply needs connection, the event offers a non-judgmental, welcoming environment where help is immediate and accessible.

Together for Shelter is also an invitation to the wider community, to come, learn, and be part of the solution. Businesses and individuals are encouraged to attend, support, or register to contribute to future efforts.

In a time when many feel lost in the noise of crisis, Together for Shelter reminds us all that dignity, care, and community still holds strong.

“Whether you need a lifeline or want to extend one, this is your moment to come along.

“Together For Shelter-because no one should face crisis alone.”

More information is available at www.casamackay.org.au, or via CASA’s Facebook page.

Sponsors supporting the event:

• BHP / BMA Mining
• Mackay Regional Council
• M& P Services
• Daly Bay Coal Terminal
• Souths Leagues Club
• Pioneer High School
• YAW Café
• Magpies Sporting Club
• Cummins
• Mango Junction
• Marty Strecker Photography

Stallholders available on the day:

HOUSING SERVICES
• St Vincent de Paul (shared)
• Dept of Housing - Critical Response & Rent Connect
• Footprints Community – Housing Older Women Service
• Kalyan House
• Whitsunday Housing

HEALTH
• Mackay Hospital & Health Services (flu injections)
• Mackay Oral Health (Dentist)
• North Queensland Primary Health Network
• BreastScreen Australia
• Together Strong Connected Care
• Mackay Sexual Health Service

MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES
• ATSICHS SWEBU
• Selectability
• Mind Australia

DRUG & ALCOHOL SERVICES
• Drug Arm
• Real Mates Talk
• Lives Lived Well

DISABILITY/AGED SERVICES
• Feros Care
• Mackay Advocacy
• Aruma

DV SERVICES
• Mackay Womens Services
• Lowanna House
• Samaritan House

YOUTH/FAMILY SERVICES
• YIRS
• PCYC Breaking the Cycle

COMMUNITY SERVICES
• Marabisda
• Badi Yalobaga Yuribaya - Mackay Connected Beginnings
• RSL Qld
• Mackay Pet Rescue
• Mackay Regional Community Legal Centre (MRCLC)
• The Neighbour Hood Centre/Hub
• Mackay City Council Library – Parker Van
• Members Church Of God International (MCGI)
• Kidney Support Network
• Soroptimist International
• Ergon Energy

SERVICES TO BE AVAILABLE
• Hairdresser
• Chiropractor
• Dog Tag Engraver
• Miss Carlie Face Painting
• Sensory Circus
• Mango Junction Live Band
• Marty Strecker Photography

EMERGENCY SERVICES
• MRC Emergency Management
• Police
• QFES – Fire Truck

EMPLOYMENT SERVICES
• Into Jobs Mackay
• Wellways
• Mylestone Employment

Please note: Stallholders are subject to change. This list is correct at the time of print.

What: Together For Shelter, hosted by CASA
When: Thursday June 5, 10am-1pm
Where: Queens Park

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On Thursday, June 5, CASA will host Together for Shelter at Queens Park from 10am to 1pm — a free community event for anyone facing hardship, housing stress, or in need of support. Photo source: CASA Mackay

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