) Weber Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL)
Tuesday, October 18, 2.30pm

Great Barrier Reef Arena

The final match of the Weber WBBL series being held in Mackay will see Brisbane Heat take on Melbourne Renegades. Tickets are only $5 for kids and $10 for adults. Book here

Some of Australia’s most legendary musicians are performing in Mackay this week, including Amy Shark at the MECC on Thursday, followed by a superb line-up of artists at Legends on the Lawn this weekend. The biggest event on the social calendar for under 5s is being held at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens on Thursday – dress up and enjoy the free activities for families!

1) Book Week - Picnic in the Gardens
Thursday, August 25, 9.30am to 11.30am

With plenty of library events, an artist’s talk and a ‘hackathon’ for entrepreneurs, there’s sure to be something for everyone in the region this week. Don’t miss the free program of STEAM inspired entertainment at the Unearthed event at the MECC this weekend!

1) Reminisce Cafe
Tuesday, August 16, 9am to 10.30am

Gordon White Library

Top 10 things to do around the region

Mackay will be party central this weekend as the BE Social Fest returns bigger and better at Harrup Park and the kids will not want to miss immersing themselves in a Roald Dahl experience at the MECC during the week. If looking for something a little more low-key, there are plenty of activities on offer across our libraries and exhibitions on display at our galleries, even catering for those seeking some mother/daughter time together.

1) Healthy Feels Good!

Wednesday, August 3, 1pm to 2pm

 Top 10 things to do around the region

The core program of the Festival of Arts winds up this weekend with the live cabaret show BARE but there’s still plenty of great fringe events to come in August. Grab the kids to explore some of the latest exhibitions at Artspace or the Lagoons Gallery and join in a community tree planting event to celebrate National Tree Day.

1) Book Clubs

Are you interested in joining a book club? Come along to book clubs held each month at the various libraries in our region and connect with people who have similar reading interests. Check out the book clubs that are available and what they are currently reading at What’s On. Bookings are required.

Top 10 things to do around the region

The Wisely Wine & Food Day may be over but there’s still more to go for Mackay Festival of Arts, including some great fringe events. If you’re after something a little quieter, head along to one of the libraries or Artspace Mackay for a look at what’s happening this week.

1) BMA Kidspace
Tuesday, July 19, 10am to 2pm (music session 11.30am to 12.15pm)

Artspace Workshop Room
BMA Kidspace is Artspace Mackay’s free and ever-popular toddlers’ program, giving children under five a chance to explore and have fun with art in a climate of co-operative learning. Local artists and performers deliver art and music activities in the gallery, designed especially for toddlers and their adults. Proudly presented by BHP Mitsubishi Alliance and Artspace Mackay. Drop in anytime, no booking required.

There’s excitement building around one of the biggest events on the Mackay social calendar, the Wisely Wine & Food Day. The event will showcase hand-picked wines, beer and foodie delights plus an array of great performances. Be sure to check out other exciting Mackay Festival of Arts events on this week.

1) 3D Your Heroes

Tuesday, July 12, 3.45pm to 4.45pm
Gordon White Library
Bring your superheroes to life and learn more about 3D printing at this exciting workshop for young adults aged 12 years and older. Learn clever methods to have your knights and villains looking just like they have been purchased from the store. Register

A mix of school holiday activities and the Mackay Festival of Arts program is giving people of all ages the chance to enjoy art, music, food and culture this week. Bring the family along to Festival Hub, travel the region and discover the Wonder Rooms and have a laugh with mates at Read the Room.

1) Ukulele for kids
Thursday, July 7, 3.40pm to 4.40pm
Gordon White Library
This program is the perfect opportunity for children and their parents to come along and have a go at playing the ukulele and learn some basic musical skills in a fun environment. Specifically designed for children aged eight to 12 years and their parent/guardian. This program will run on the first Thursday of the month at Gordon White Library. Book tickets.

2) The Festival Hub
Thursday, July 7, to Friday, July 8, 6pm to 9pm daily
Bluewater Quay, Brisbane Steet Mackay
Festival Hub, located on our picturesque Pioneer River will feature live entertainment and family fun for all ages on select dates during the July school holidays. With live musicians, roving street performers, food options and a licenced bar – take a seat, relax, and enjoy the festival atmosphere. This is a free ticketed event for all ages. Book tickets.

3) Read the Room
Thursday, July 7, and Friday, July 8, 7.30pm

Considered to be regional Queensland’s most cheeky event, Mackay Beach Horse Races organisers, Sound Australia are thrilled to announce the debut of the world’s very first air jockey competition.

Competitors on the beach will don their specially made Mackay Beach Horse Races jockey caps - thanks to Fullhammer Mackay- and battle it out against other wannabe jockeys for the title. A social media-based competition will also be held, with punters from around Australia cordially invited to get in the mix by submitting their most enthusiastic videos. Major prizes for this competition will soon be announced.

The always-popular Fashions on the Sand is also back this year with incredible prizes on offer, including 1 x nights’ accommodation in a King Room at the Emporium Hotel Southbank, a Camira Sailing Adventure for 2 adults with Cruise Whitsundays and more. The categories include Best Dressed Classic Lady, Best Dressed Contemporary Lady, Best Man on the Sand, and Best Headwear.

Everyone knows locals have the best tips and tricks for travellers...after all we know our town like the back of our hand! Read on...you know you want to.

1. Pies for days

If you want to feel absolutely exhausted but also like you've well and truly made the most of your Sunday - head for a drive up to Finch Hatton Gorge in the Pioneer Valley for a hike and swim. It's also pretty much compulsory for locals to stop in at the Pinnacle Pub - sunburnt and still wearing togs - for a pie, peas and gravy on your way home. You're guaranteed to see someone you know there at lunch time on a Sunday, but hey, everyone else will look as dishevelled as you. The quality of your afternoon nap after a long day in the car will be worth the effort.