MARVELLOUS MACKAY
Mackay is a bustling coastal city 970km north of Brisbane with a modern port and a sophisticated business sector. During its long and prosperous history, it has been known by many names — Alexandria, ‘Sugar Capital of Australia’ and, most recently, ‘Gateway to the Bowen Basin’. Its official name honours Captain John Mackay, who explored the region in 1860.
Basking under a tropical sun beside the Pioneer River, the streets of the city centre are graced with manicured median strips, Royal Palms and flowering planter boxes. Many buildings in the CBD are heritage-listed examples of early 20th century art-deco architecture. Sculptures and colourful terrazzo mosaics depict the region’s abundant natural assets, which include golden beaches, the Great Barrier Reef and the hinterland rainforests of Eungella National Park.
PIONEER RIVER VALLEY
The Pioneer River is named after , which brought Queensland Governor George Bowen to the area on a visit in October 1862. The river rises south-west of Mackay in ranges that receive annual rainfall in excess of 3,000mm. Its catchment unites 10 tributaries that collectively meander as the Pioneer for 120km to the Coral Sea at Mackay,
