ANZAC stands for Australian and New Zealand Army Corps. The soldiers in those forces became known as ANZACs.

Anzac Day is a national day of remembrance in Australia and New Zealand that broadly commemorates all Australians and New Zealanders "who served and died in all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations" and "the contribution and suffering of all those who have served". Observed on 25 April each year, Anzac Day was originally devised to honour the members of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) who served in the Gallipoli Campaign, their first engagement in the First World War (1914–1918).

Lively Physiotherapy would like to thank all past and current serving men and women for your service.

Lest we forget.

Explore the Mackay region's rich historical and cultural past with a series of interactive and immersive discovery trails. This experience is designed so you can immerse yourself and interact with Mackay's interesting past.

Choose your adventure! Want a walking tour through our City Centre and Waterfront? Or maybe you're planning a day trip up the scenic Pioneer Valley? We’ve got something for you

Visit the Mackay Regional Council website for more information on the different self guided tours available.

Mackay parkrun is a FREE weekly 5km event for runners of all standards, which takes place every Saturday at 7:00am in Mackay Botanic Gardens, Lagoon Street, Mackay, Queensland 4740. It is not a race against other runners, but a 5k timed run and it can really be whatever you want it to be, whether that's for fun or as part of a training plan.

It offers an opportunity for all the local community, male or female, young or old, to come together on a regular basis to enjoy this beautiful park and get physically active into the bargain. We want to encourage people to jog or run together irrespective of their ability – this event is truly open to all and best of all it really is FREE!

Taking part is easy – just register before your first ever parkrun. The great thing is that you only ever need to do this once! Then just set your alarm for Saturday morning and get yourself there!

Every week we grab a post parkrun coffee in the Lagoon Café - please come and join us! Maybe swap stories about your run that day, chat to other runners over a cup of tea or coffee and just be an important part of this new running community.

So whether you are a complete novice looking to get yourself started on your own "running journey" or a seasoned athlete wanting to use this as a part of your training schedule, you’re welcome to come along and join us

Enjoy getting out and about, take a picnic to one of our many great parks or beaches.

10,000 Steps is a whole of community program that aims to increase the physical activity undertaken by residents.

Circuits are located at:

• Armstrong Beach

• Campwin Beach

• Grasstree Beach

• Koumala

• Mackay City Centre (2x)

• Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens

• Mirani (2x)

• Northview Gardens

• The Gooseponds

• Salonika Beach

• Sarina

• Sarina Beach

Brochures with maps are available for:

• Mackay (PDF 338kb)

• Mackay City Centre (PDF 258kb)

• Mirani (PDF 252kb)

• Sarina (PDF 323kb

Catch up with a friend for coffee or just enjoy treating yourself to something you enjoy.

The Greater Whitsunday Farmers’ Market is the showcase of local, fresh produce and value added products from within Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday Region. Every Wednesday morning from 7am to 11am in Mackay's vibrant city heart on the beautiful Bluewater Quay. Join families and restaurateurs in buying local produce that does not come any fresher. All stall holders are guaranteed local to the region and are selling guaranteed local goods that either are grown and caught locally or are made with local ingredients. Get to meet your local farmer and ask them directly all about the produce you will be taking home to feed your family. Where was it grown? When was is picked? Do you use sprays on this? How best to store the produce? Will this be in season long? And so many more questions!

There are a few different walking groups in Mackay. Google walking groups Mackay to find a group and a time that suits you. Or just get some friends together and explore our beautiful area.

Are you looking for somewhere to fish in Mackay, but you don’t have a boat? It doesn’t matter. There are beaches, rock walls, dams, jetties, boat ramps, bridges and deep water just waiting for you to cast a line.

If you are lucky and have a boat (or know someone who does) then enjoy a day on the water wetting a line.

Mackay parkrun is a FREE weekly 5km event for runners of all standards, which takes place every Saturday at 7:00am in Mackay Botanic Gardens, Lagoon Street, Mackay, Queensland 4740. It is not a race against other runners, but a 5k timed run and it can really be whatever you want it to be, whether that's for fun or as part of a training plan.

It offers an opportunity for all the local community, male or female, young or old, to come together on a regular basis to enjoy this beautiful park and get physically active into the bargain. We want to encourage people to jog or run together irrespective of their ability – this event is truly open to all and best of all it really is FREE!

Taking part is easy – just register before your first ever parkrun. The great thing is that you only ever need to do this once! Then just set your alarm for Saturday morning and get yourself there!

Every week we grab a post parkrun coffee in the Lagoon Café - please come and join us! Maybe swap stories about your run that day, chat to other runners over a cup of tea or coffee and just be an important part of this new running community.

So whether you are a complete novice looking to get yourself started on your own "running journey" or a seasoned athlete wanting to use this as a part of your training schedule, you’re welcome to come along and join us

So many places to visit close by, Eungella, Finch Hatton, Airlie Beach, Cape Hillsborough, Cape Palmerston, Blackdown tablelands, Bowen just to name a few.

Clinic Closed today, we will reopen at 7am on Tuesday the 7th of May

Ingredients

Crispy chicken tacos

• 1 large chicken breast, sliced into even-sized strips

• 2 tablespoon sour cream

• pinch turmeric

• 1 teaspoon mexican seasoning or cajun spice

• 1 clove garlic, crushed

• 2 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 1/2 cup (approx) panko or fresh breadcrumbs

• oil for frying

• 8 crispy taco shells

• grated cheese, shredded lettuce, grated carrot, diced red onion, sliced cucumber, to serve

• sour cream and sweet chilli sauce, for garnish

Method

• 1 In a glass or stainless steel bowl, combine the chicken strips, sour cream, turmeric, spice, garlic and lemon juice, then mix until coated. Leave to marinate for up to 2 hours.

• 2 When ready to serve, toss the marinated chicken strips in the panko or breadcrumbs and cook in a large, preheated frying pan with a little oil until golden and cooked through.

• 3 Serve the chicken strips in warmed taco shells with a range of salad ingredients. Top with a dollop of sour cream and drizzle over sweet chilli.

Notes

Add more or less seasoning depending on your tastes.

The Greater Whitsunday Farmers’ Market is the showcase of local, fresh produce and value added products from within Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday Region. Every Wednesday morning from 7am to 11am in Mackay's vibrant city heart on the beautiful Bluewater Quay. Join families and restaurateurs in buying local produce that does not come any fresher. All stall holders are guaranteed local to the region and are selling guaranteed local goods that either are grown and caught locally or are made with local ingredients. Get to meet your local farmer and ask them directly all about the produce you will be taking home to feed your family. Where was it grown? When was is picked? Do you use sprays on this? How best to store the produce? Will this be in season long? And so many more questions!

5 Benefits of Reading

• Reduces stress and helps you relax. ...

• Improves your concentration and memory. ...

• Vocabulary expansion and strengthens your writing abilities. ...

• Enhances your knowledge. ...

• Increases your imagination and creativity.

The Botanic Gardens are teaming up with the Mackay Regional Council Libraries team to offer yoga classes on the second Friday of the month, February to June. 

Join us on the Tropical Sun Lawn in front of the café, bring your own mat or borrow one from the Mackay Regional Council Libraries team. These basic sessions are aimed at beginners so no prior experience is required, 

Friday, February 9, March 8, April 12, May 10 and June 14,  from 9am to 10am.

Book your spot for the first class via Eventbrite. 

Mackay parkrun is a FREE weekly 5km event for runners of all standards, which takes place every Saturday at 7:00am in Mackay Botanic Gardens, Lagoon Street, Mackay, Queensland 4740. It is not a race against other runners, but a 5k timed run and it can really be whatever you want it to be, whether that's for fun or as part of a training plan.

It offers an opportunity for all the local community, male or female, young or old, to come together on a regular basis to enjoy this beautiful park and get physically active into the bargain. We want to encourage people to jog or run together irrespective of their ability – this event is truly open to all and best of all it really is FREE!

Taking part is easy – just register before your first ever parkrun. The great thing is that you only ever need to do this once! Then just set your alarm for Saturday morning and get yourself there!

Every week we grab a post parkrun coffee in the Lagoon Café - please come and join us! Maybe swap stories about your run that day, chat to other runners over a cup of tea or coffee and just be an important part of this new running community.

So whether you are a complete novice looking to get yourself started on your own "running journey" or a seasoned athlete wanting to use this as a part of your training schedule, you’re welcome to come along and join us

Lots of great places around Mackay to walk your dog. We have a few off leash areas, please read the guidelines below.

CONDITIONS FOR USING OFF LEASH AREAS

Off leash areas are not for the exclusive use of dogs and their owners. They are for the enjoyment of all, so please be considerate of people who may be sharing the area with you and your dog or using the area after you leave.

Here are a few simple steps to make your visit to an off leash area a pleasant one for everyone:

• Biting, fighting and aggressive dogs are not welcome

• Excessive barking is not allowed

• Keep pets under effective control at all times

• Pets should have current vaccinations

• Always clean up after your pet – Scoop the poop

• Don't bring more dogs than you can handle

• Fill any holes your dog digs

• Always be considerate of other users

• Dogs must be registered.

Call or meet up with a friend. Touch base with someone you care about.

Catch up with a friend for coffee or just enjoy treating yourself to something you enjoy.

The Greater Whitsunday Farmers’ Market is the showcase of local, fresh produce and value added products from within Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday Region. Every Wednesday morning from 7am to 11am in Mackay's vibrant city heart on the beautiful Bluewater Quay. Join families and restaurateurs in buying local produce that does not come any fresher. All stall holders are guaranteed local to the region and are selling guaranteed local goods that either are grown and caught locally or are made with local ingredients. Get to meet your local farmer and ask them directly all about the produce you will be taking home to feed your family. Where was it grown? When was is picked? Do you use sprays on this? How best to store the produce? Will this be in season long? And so many more questions!

There are some great play parks to take the kids too all around the Mackay area. Keep an eye out for one near you and take the kids for some fun outdoors.

Interested in learning about the basics of fishing? This program teaches young adults all about the fishing hobby, while also teaching the ethics and conservation of our environment.

This event is for participants 12 - 18 years.

Dudley Denny City Library Phone 4361 9387

Event runs from 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM

Compost bins and worm farms are two great ways to recycle your fruit and vegetable scraps at home and turn organic material into rich nutrients for the garden.

Composting and worm farming at home is simple, and good for the environment by reducing the amount of organic waste that goes to landfill and creating a more natural and healthier place to live.

Worm farms produce great natural fertiliser for your garden, take up very little space and are easy-to-use.

The Botanic Gardens are hosting the workshop on Saturday, May 20, from 9am to 11am. To view other available sessions in 2023 and to register, visit the website below

https://www.mackay.qld.gov.au/residents/services/waste/worm_farms_and_composting

Mackay Regional Council sponsors free composting and worm farming workshops each year.

Workshop dates proposed for 2024 are as follows:

• Saturday, February 10th – Sarina Landcare

• Saturday, March 9th – Slade Point Community Gardens

• Saturday, May 18th – Mackay Botanic Gardens

• Saturday, September 7th – Melba House

• Saturday, November 16th – Mackay Community Garden

There are five patrolled beaches in the Mackay region including:

> Bucasia Beach

> Eimeo Beach

> Harbour Beach

> Lamberts Beach

> Sarina Beach

They are patrolled on weekends, school holidays and public holidays from the September school holidays until the May Day public holiday each year (except for Harbour Beach, which is patrolled 365 days a year).

When swimming at the region's beaches, remember to swim safe! Swim between the red and yellow flags, wear a stinger suit, carry a bottle of vinegar in the car and apply sunscreen regularly

Beautiful weather to get out and about, go for a wander through the beautiful Botanical gardens :)

Catch up with a friend for coffee or just enjoy treating yourself to something you enjoy.

The Greater Whitsunday Farmers’ Market is the showcase of local, fresh produce and value added products from within Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday Region. Every Wednesday morning from 7am to 11am in Mackay's vibrant city heart on the beautiful Bluewater Quay. Join families and restaurateurs in buying local produce that does not come any fresher. All stall holders are guaranteed local to the region and are selling guaranteed local goods that either are grown and caught locally or are made with local ingredients. Get to meet your local farmer and ask them directly all about the produce you will be taking home to feed your family. Where was it grown? When was is picked? Do you use sprays on this? How best to store the produce? Will this be in season long? And so many more questions!

Bocce with a buddy Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens

Event runs from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Cost: $5 for hire of bocce set with a $50 cash only deposit

Date: Monday - Friday

Time: 9am -5pm

Location: Malta Garden

Enjoy a game of bocce or croquet with a friend on our sand bocce court. Bocce sets are available for hire from Gardens Administration.

Are you looking for somewhere to fish in Mackay, but you don’t have a boat? It doesn’t matter. There are beaches, rock walls, dams, jetties, boat ramps, bridges and deep water just waiting for you to cast a line.

If you are lucky and have a boat (or know someone who does) then enjoy a day on the water wetting a line.

Mackay parkrun is a FREE weekly 5km event for runners of all standards, which takes place every Saturday at 7:00am in Mackay Botanic Gardens, Lagoon Street, Mackay, Queensland 4740. It is not a race against other runners, but a 5k timed run and it can really be whatever you want it to be, whether that's for fun or as part of a training plan.

It offers an opportunity for all the local community, male or female, young or old, to come together on a regular basis to enjoy this beautiful park and get physically active into the bargain. We want to encourage people to jog or run together irrespective of their ability – this event is truly open to all and best of all it really is FREE!

Taking part is easy – just register before your first ever parkrun. The great thing is that you only ever need to do this once! Then just set your alarm for Saturday morning and get yourself there!

Every week we grab a post parkrun coffee in the Lagoon Café - please come and join us! Maybe swap stories about your run that day, chat to other runners over a cup of tea or coffee and just be an important part of this new running community.

So whether you are a complete novice looking to get yourself started on your own "running journey" or a seasoned athlete wanting to use this as a part of your training schedule, you’re welcome to come along and join us

So many places to visit close by, Eungella, Finch Hatton, Cape Hillsborough, Cape Palmerston, Cape Gloucester, Blackdown tablelands, Bowen just to name a few.

Call or meet up with a friend. Touch base with someone you care about.

Catch up with a friend for coffee or just enjoy treating yourself to something you enjoy.

The Greater Whitsunday Farmers’ Market is the showcase of local, fresh produce and value added products from within Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday Region. Every Wednesday morning from 7am to 11am in Mackay's vibrant city heart on the beautiful Bluewater Quay. Join families and restaurateurs in buying local produce that does not come any fresher. All stall holders are guaranteed local to the region and are selling guaranteed local goods that either are grown and caught locally or are made with local ingredients. Get to meet your local farmer and ask them directly all about the produce you will be taking home to feed your family. Where was it grown? When was is picked? Do you use sprays on this? How best to store the produce? Will this be in season long? And so many more questions!

Start a journal, write down what you are grateful for. Keeping a journal Increases Positivity. When you take the time to focus on the good things in your life you naturally become more positive. By writing down what you are thankful for, it can make you more optimistic because you are choosing to see more of the positivity in your life, giving less power to negative emotions.

So many places to visit close by, Eungella, Finch Hatton, Cape Hillsborough, Cape Palmerston, Blackdown tablelands, Bowen, Cape Gloucester just to name a few.

Mackay parkrun is a FREE weekly 5km event for runners of all standards, which takes place every Saturday at 7:00am in Mackay Botanic Gardens, Lagoon Street, Mackay, Queensland 4740. It is not a race against other runners, but a 5k timed run and it can really be whatever you want it to be, whether that's for fun or as part of a training plan.

It offers an opportunity for all the local community, male or female, young or old, to come together on a regular basis to enjoy this beautiful park and get physically active into the bargain. We want to encourage people to jog or run together irrespective of their ability – this event is truly open to all and best of all it really is FREE!

Taking part is easy – just register before your first ever parkrun. The great thing is that you only ever need to do this once! Then just set your alarm for Saturday morning and get yourself there!

Every week we grab a post parkrun coffee in the Lagoon Café - please come and join us! Maybe swap stories about your run that day, chat to other runners over a cup of tea or coffee and just be an important part of this new running community.

So whether you are a complete novice looking to get yourself started on your own "running journey" or a seasoned athlete wanting to use this as a part of your training schedule, you’re welcome to come along and join us

So many places to visit close by, Eungella, Finch Hatton, Airlie Beach, Cape Hillsborough, Cape Palmerston, Blackdown tablelands, Bowen just to name a few.

There are a few different walking groups in Mackay. Google walking groups Mackay to find a group and a time that suits you.

Ingredients

• 2 teaspoon olive oil

• 250 grams (8 ounces) minced (ground) pork

• 1 finely chopped chipotle chilli in adobo sauce, plus 2 teaspoons adobo sauce, optional

• 1/2 cup (140g) Greek-style yoghurt

• 40 grams gem lettuce leaves, shredded

• 1 medium avocado (250g), sliced thinly

• 2 tablespoon lime juice

• 1 small red onion (100g), sliced thinly

• 20 grams snow pea shoots

• 1 lime, cut into wedges

• extra gem lettuce leaves, to serve

• chilli sauce, to serve

Carrot taco shells

• 1 1/2 cups (230g) coarsely grated carrot (around 3 carrots)

• 1/2 cup (60g) grated manchego cheese

• 2 eggs, beaten lightly

• 1/4 cup (35g) oat flour

Method

• 1 Preheat oven to 200°C/400°F. Line two oven trays with baking paper.

• 2 Steam or boil carrot for 3 minutes or until tender. Place in a tea towel and squeeze to remove excess liquid. Place in a medium bowl with cheese, egg and flour; stir to combine. Season.

• 3 Divide carrot mixture into quarters; spread out into four 14cm (5½-inch) rounds on trays. Bake taco shells for 20 minutes or until golden; stand on trays for 1 minute.

• 4 Taking care as shells will still be warm, bend each round over a small bottle to form a taco shape. Leave to cool on bottle.

• 5 Meanwhile, heat oil in a large frying pan over high heat. Cook pork, breaking up any lumps with a spoon, for 5 minutes or until browned and cooked through. Add chilli; cook for a further 1 minute. Season to taste.

• 6 Swirl reserved adobo sauce, if using, through yoghurt. Divide shredded lettuce, pork mixture, avocado, combined lime juice and onion, yoghurt mixture and pea shoots evenly
  among taco shells. Serve with lime wedges, extra lettuce leaves and no-nasties chilli sauce.

Notes

*Manchego is a semi-firm Spanish sheep's milk cheese available from major supermarkets and delis. Substitute with mature cheddar, if you like.

The Greater Whitsunday Farmers’ Market is the showcase of local, fresh produce and value added products from within Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday Region. Every Wednesday morning from 7am to 11am in Mackay's vibrant city heart on the beautiful Bluewater Quay. Join families and restaurateurs in buying local produce that does not come any fresher. All stall holders are guaranteed local to the region and are selling guaranteed local goods that either are grown and caught locally or are made with local ingredients. Get to meet your local farmer and ask them directly all about the produce you will be taking home to feed your family. Where was it grown? When was is picked? Do you use sprays on this? How best to store the produce? Will this be in season long? And so many more questions!

There are a few different walking groups in Mackay. Google walking groups Mackay to find a group and a time that suits you. Or just get some friends together and explore our beautiful area.

We have lots of great spots to go camping around Mackay. If you want to kick back and relax, maybe do a bit of fishing head to Cape Hillsborough, Seaforth, Ball Bay or Cape Palmerston. If you like to do a bit of walking maybe head to Broken river or try the 56km Mackay Highlands Great Walk.

Mackay parkrun is a FREE weekly 5km event for runners of all standards, which takes place every Saturday at 7:00am in Mackay Botanic Gardens, Lagoon Street, Mackay, Queensland 4740. It is not a race against other runners, but a 5k timed run and it can really be whatever you want it to be, whether that's for fun or as part of a training plan.

It offers an opportunity for all the local community, male or female, young or old, to come together on a regular basis to enjoy this beautiful park and get physically active into the bargain. We want to encourage people to jog or run together irrespective of their ability – this event is truly open to all and best of all it really is FREE!

Taking part is easy – just register before your first ever parkrun. The great thing is that you only ever need to do this once! Then just set your alarm for Saturday morning and get yourself there!

Every week we grab a post parkrun coffee in the Lagoon Café - please come and join us! Maybe swap stories about your run that day, chat to other runners over a cup of tea or coffee and just be an important part of this new running community.

So whether you are a complete novice looking to get yourself started on your own "running journey" or a seasoned athlete wanting to use this as a part of your training schedule, you’re welcome to come along and join us

There are five patrolled beaches in the Mackay region including:

> Bucasia Beach

> Eimeo Beach

> Harbour Beach

> Lamberts Beach

> Sarina Beach

They are patrolled on weekends, school holidays and public holidays from the September school holidays until the May Day public holiday each year (except for Harbour Beach, which is patrolled 365 days a year).

When swimming at the region's beaches, remember to swim safe! Swim between the red and yellow flags, wear a stinger suit, carry a bottle of vinegar in the car and apply sunscreen regularly

10,000 Steps is a whole of community program that aims to increase the physical activity undertaken by residents.

Circuits are located at:

• Armstrong Beach

• Campwin Beach

• Grasstree Beach

• Koumala

• Mackay City Centre (2x)

• Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens

• Mirani (2x)

• Northview Gardens

• The Gooseponds

• Salonika Beach

• Sarina

• Sarina Beach

Brochures with maps are available for:

• Mackay (PDF 338kb)

• Mackay City Centre (PDF 258kb)

• Mirani (PDF 252kb)

• Sarina (PDF 323kb

Catch up with a friend for coffee or just enjoy treating yourself to something you enjoy.

The Greater Whitsunday Farmers’ Market is the showcase of local, fresh produce and value added products from within Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday Region. Every Wednesday morning from 7am to 11am in Mackay's vibrant city heart on the beautiful Bluewater Quay. Join families and restaurateurs in buying local produce that does not come any fresher. All stall holders are guaranteed local to the region and are selling guaranteed local goods that either are grown and caught locally or are made with local ingredients. Get to meet your local farmer and ask them directly all about the produce you will be taking home to feed your family. Where was it grown? When was is picked? Do you use sprays on this? How best to store the produce? Will this be in season long? And so many more questions!

The nights are getting a bit cooler, time for some campfire cooking. Grab a comfy chair, relax and tell a few good stories around the campfire.

The Botanic Gardens are teaming up with the Mackay Regional Council Libraries team to offer yoga classes on the second Friday of the month, February to June. 

Join us on the Tropical Sun Lawn in front of the café, bring your own mat or borrow one from the Mackay Regional Council Libraries team. These basic sessions are aimed at beginners so no prior experience is required, 

Friday, February 9, March 8, April 12, May 10 and June 14,  from 9am to 10am.

Book your spot for the first class via Eventbrite. 

Mackay parkrun is a FREE weekly 5km event for runners of all standards, which takes place every Saturday at 7:00am in Mackay Botanic Gardens, Lagoon Street, Mackay, Queensland 4740. It is not a race against other runners, but a 5k timed run and it can really be whatever you want it to be, whether that's for fun or as part of a training plan.

It offers an opportunity for all the local community, male or female, young or old, to come together on a regular basis to enjoy this beautiful park and get physically active into the bargain. We want to encourage people to jog or run together irrespective of their ability – this event is truly open to all and best of all it really is FREE!

Taking part is easy – just register before your first ever parkrun. The great thing is that you only ever need to do this once! Then just set your alarm for Saturday morning and get yourself there!

Every week we grab a post parkrun coffee in the Lagoon Café - please come and join us! Maybe swap stories about your run that day, chat to other runners over a cup of tea or coffee and just be an important part of this new running community.

So whether you are a complete novice looking to get yourself started on your own "running journey" or a seasoned athlete wanting to use this as a part of your training schedule, you’re welcome to come along and join us

5 Benefits of Reading

• Reduces stress and helps you relax. ...

• Improves your concentration and memory. ...

• Vocabulary expansion and strengthens your writing abilities. ...

• Enhances your knowledge. ...

• Increases your imagination and creativity.

Enjoy some time out with a coffee and a puzzle.

Catch up with a friend for coffee or just enjoy treating yourself to something you enjoy.

The Greater Whitsunday Farmers’ Market is the showcase of local, fresh produce and value added products from within Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday Region. Every Wednesday morning from 7am to 11am in Mackay's vibrant city heart on the beautiful Bluewater Quay. Join families and restaurateurs in buying local produce that does not come any fresher. All stall holders are guaranteed local to the region and are selling guaranteed local goods that either are grown and caught locally or are made with local ingredients. Get to meet your local farmer and ask them directly all about the produce you will be taking home to feed your family. Where was it grown? When was is picked? Do you use sprays on this? How best to store the produce? Will this be in season long? And so many more questions!

We will be closed today for the show public holiday. We will reopen on Friday at 7am.

Mackay Driving Range is a family friendly business catering for all levels and ability. And now also has a PUTT PUTT course ! Whether you have never hit a ball or are a “wanna be” pro.

Mackay Driving Range is fully licensed. Snacks, ice creams, drinks are available from our kiosk as well as hire equipment.

OPENING HOURS
Wednesday 10am – 7pm
Thursday 10am – 7pm
Friday 10am – 7pm
Saturday 10am – 7pm
Sunday 10am – 6pm
**  Closed on public holidays  **

DRIVING RANGE COSTS
$13 – per bucket (75 balls)
Hire Equipment from $5.00

PUTT PUTT COSTS
$9 Per Player
$29 Family of 4
Putter and Ball Included

Mackay parkrun is a FREE weekly 5km event for runners of all standards, which takes place every Saturday at 7:00am in Mackay Botanic Gardens, Lagoon Street, Mackay, Queensland 4740. It is not a race against other runners, but a 5k timed run and it can really be whatever you want it to be, whether that's for fun or as part of a training plan.

It offers an opportunity for all the local community, male or female, young or old, to come together on a regular basis to enjoy this beautiful park and get physically active into the bargain. We want to encourage people to jog or run together irrespective of their ability – this event is truly open to all and best of all it really is FREE!

Taking part is easy – just register before your first ever parkrun. The great thing is that you only ever need to do this once! Then just set your alarm for Saturday morning and get yourself there!

Every week we grab a post parkrun coffee in the Lagoon Café - please come and join us! Maybe swap stories about your run that day, chat to other runners over a cup of tea or coffee and just be an important part of this new running community.

So whether you are a complete novice looking to get yourself started on your own "running journey" or a seasoned athlete wanting to use this as a part of your training schedule, you’re welcome to come along and join us

Get an early start and join the kangaroos at Cape Hillsborough to watch the sunrise.

There are a few different walking groups in Mackay. Google walking groups Mackay to find a group and a time that suits you. Or just get some friends together and explore our beautiful area.

Catch up with a friend for coffee or just enjoy treating yourself to something you enjoy.

The Greater Whitsunday Farmers’ Market is the showcase of local, fresh produce and value added products from within Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday Region. Every Wednesday morning from 7am to 11am in Mackay's vibrant city heart on the beautiful Bluewater Quay. Join families and restaurateurs in buying local produce that does not come any fresher. All stall holders are guaranteed local to the region and are selling guaranteed local goods that either are grown and caught locally or are made with local ingredients. Get to meet your local farmer and ask them directly all about the produce you will be taking home to feed your family. Where was it grown? When was is picked? Do you use sprays on this? How best to store the produce? Will this be in season long? And so many more questions!

Interested in learning about the basics of fishing? This program teaches young adults all about the fishing hobby, while also teaching the ethics and conservation of our environment.

This event is for participants 12 - 18 years.

Dudley Denny City Library Phone 4361 9387

Event runs from 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM

Are you looking for somewhere to fish in Mackay, but you don’t have a boat? It doesn’t matter. There are beaches, rock walls, dams, jetties, boat ramps, bridges and deep water just waiting for you to cast a line There are lots of great spots to throw a line in (whether you catch something when you do is another matter).

Mackay parkrun is a FREE weekly 5km event for runners of all standards, which takes place every Saturday at 7:00am in Mackay Botanic Gardens, Lagoon Street, Mackay, Queensland 4740. It is not a race against other runners, but a 5k timed run and it can really be whatever you want it to be, whether that's for fun or as part of a training plan.

It offers an opportunity for all the local community, male or female, young or old, to come together on a regular basis to enjoy this beautiful park and get physically active into the bargain. We want to encourage people to jog or run together irrespective of their ability – this event is truly open to all and best of all it really is FREE!

Taking part is easy – just register before your first ever parkrun. The great thing is that you only ever need to do this once! Then just set your alarm for Saturday morning and get yourself there!

Every week we grab a post parkrun coffee in the Lagoon Café - please come and join us! Maybe swap stories about your run that day, chat to other runners over a cup of tea or coffee and just be an important part of this new running community.

So whether you are a complete novice looking to get yourself started on your own "running journey" or a seasoned athlete wanting to use this as a part of your training schedule, you’re welcome to come along and join us

Lots of great places around Mackay to walk your dog. We have a few off leash areas, please read the guidelines below.

CONDITIONS FOR USING OFF LEASH AREAS

Off leash areas are not for the exclusive use of dogs and their owners. They are for the enjoyment of all, so please be considerate of people who may be sharing the area with you and your dog or using the area after you leave.

Here are a few simple steps to make your visit to an off leash area a pleasant one for everyone:

• Biting, fighting and aggressive dogs are not welcome

• Excessive barking is not allowed

• Keep pets under effective control at all times

• Pets should have current vaccinations

• Always clean up after your pet – Scoop the poop

• Don't bring more dogs than you can handle

• Fill any holes your dog digs

• Always be considerate of other users

• Dogs must be registered.

Ingredients

• 300 g firm tofu, drained

• 3 large portobello mushrooms (600g), chopped

• 200 g swiss brown mushrooms, halved

• 200 g small button mushrooms

• 1¼ cups (320g) black bean and chipotle salsa

• ½ bunch coriander (cilantro), leaves reserved, stems and roots chopped finely

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 1 trimmed cob of corn (250g), kernels removed

• 8 small white corn tortillas (200g)

• 250 g cottage cheese

• 1 large avocado (320g)

• 120 g cherry tomatoes, quartered

Method

• 1 Crumble tofu into a large bowl, forming a mixture of large and small chunks. Add mushrooms, salsa and 2 tablespoons chopped coriander stems and roots; stir well to combine.

• 2 Heat 1 tablespoon of the oil in a large, heavy-based non-stick frying pan over high heat. Add half the mushroom mixture; cook, stirring occasionally, for 8 minutes or until mushrooms are browned and tender. Transfer to a bowl. Repeat with remaining oil and mushroom mixture. Return all mushrooms to the pan with corn; stir to combine. Season to taste. Remove pan from heat; cover to keep warm.

• 3 Meanwhile, heat a chargrill pan over medium heat; cook tortillas, one at a time, for 30 seconds each side or until char marks appear. Transfer to a plate; keep warm.

• 4 Process cottage cheese and avocado until smooth. Season to taste.

• 5 Stir ½ cup coriander leaves through mushroom mixture; divide among tortillas. Top with tomatoes and remaining coriander leaves. Serve tacos with the avocado-cottage cheese, drizzled with extra oil, if you like.

Notes

If you like things spicy, add a pinch of dried chilli flakes or sliced fresh chilli to the mushrooms.

Ingredients

Smoky orange prawn tacos

• 20 uncooked peeled small king prawns

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 clove garlic, crushed

• 2 teaspoon fresh orange juice cooking-oil spray

• 4 white corn tortillas

• 2 tablespoon light sour cream

• 1 trimmed corn cob

• 1 tomato, cut into wedges

• 1 orange, cut into segments

• 1/2 red onion, cut into wedges

• 2 tablespoon pickled jalapeño chillies

• 1/4 cup loosely packed fresh coriander leaves (cilantro)

• 2 teaspoon lime juice

Method

Smoky orange prawn tacos

• 1 Place prawns, paprika, garlic and juice in a large bowl; mix to combine, season. Thread onto 20 bamboo skewers.

• 2 Make corn salsa. Cook corn on a heated grill plate (or grill or barbecue) for 10 minutes, turning occasionally. When cool enough to handle, use a sharp knife to remove the kernels from the cob. Combine corn in a medium bowl with remaining ingredients. Season to taste.

• 3 Lightly spray a heated grill plate (or barbecue or grill) with oil; cook prawns for 3 minutes or until just changed in colour.

• 4 Cook tortillas on a grill plate for 30 seconds each side. Fill tortillas with prawns and salsa; top with sour cream. Accompany with lime wedges, if you like.

Notes

Pickled jalapeños chillies can be found in the pickled vegetable or Mexican section of supermarkets.

Ingredients

Beef tacos

• 2 teaspoon olive oil

• 500 gram beef mince

• 1 clove garlic, crushed

• 1 1/2 cup (375ml) water

• 2 tablespoon tomato paste

• 35 gram packet taco seasoning

• 12 taco shells

• 8 lettuce leaves, shredded finely

• 2 medium tomatoes (300g), chopped finely

• 1 cup (120g) grated cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup bottled mild chunky salsa

Method

Beef tacos

• 1 Preheat oven to 180°C (160°C fan-forced).

• 2 Heat oil in large frying pan, add beef and garlic; cook, stirring, about 5 minutes or until the beef is browned all over. Add the water, tomato paste and taco seasoning to beef mixture; stir until well combined. Bring to a boil; reduce heat, simmer, uncovered, about 10 minutes or until most of the liquid is evaporated.

• 3 Meanwhile, place taco shells, upside down, on oven tray. Heat shells in oven, uncovered, about 5 minutes or until heated through. Using oven mitts, remove tray from oven, place on a wooden board.

• 4 Divide beef mixture among taco shells; top with lettuce, tomato and cheese, drizzle with salsa.

Notes

Place the minced beef mixture, taco shells, lettuce, cheese, tomato and salsa in separate bowls on the table, and let everyone assemble their own tacos.

Compost bins and worm farms are two great ways to recycle your fruit and vegetable scraps at home and turn organic material into rich nutrients for the garden.

Composting and worm farming at home is simple, and good for the environment by reducing the amount of organic waste that goes to landfill and creating a more natural and healthier place to live.

Worm farms produce great natural fertiliser for your garden, take up very little space and are easy-to-use.

The Botanic Gardens are hosting the workshop on Saturday, May 20, from 9am to 11am. To view other available sessions in 2023 and to register, visit the website below

https://www.mackay.qld.gov.au/residents/services/waste/worm_farms_and_composting

Mackay Regional Council sponsors free composting and worm farming workshops each year.

Workshop dates proposed for 2024 are as follows:

• Saturday, February 10th – Sarina Landcare

• Saturday, March 9th – Slade Point Community Gardens

• Saturday, May 18th – Mackay Botanic Gardens

• Saturday, September 7th – Melba House

• Saturday, November 16th – Mackay Community Garden

Ingredients

Spiced fish tacos with slaw & avocado cream

• 625 gram firm white skinless fish fillets, cut into long pieces

• 1 teaspoon ground allspice

• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1 1/2 tablespoon garlic powder

• 1/4 cup (60 millilitres) olive oil

• 2 medium avocados

• 1/2 cup (120 grams) sour cream

• 2 tablespoon lime juice

• 350 gram white cabbage, shredded

• 2 cup loosely packed fresh coriander leaves

• 1 red onion, halved, thinly sliced

• 1 fresh long green chilli, seeded, thinly sliced

• 1/4 cup (60 millilitres) freshly squeezed orange juice

• 1 clove garlic, crushed

• 16 small (14cm) flour tortillas

Method

Spiced fish tacos with slaw & avocado cream

• 1 Cut the fish fillets lengthways on the diagonal into 1.5cm wide, 12cm-long strips.

• 2 In a medium bowl, combine fish, allspice, thyme, cayenne pepper, cinnamon, garlic powder and oil. Season. Cover; refrigerate until required.

• 3 Blend or process avocado, sour cream and lime juice until smooth. Season to taste.

• 4 In a large bowl, combine cabbage, coriander, onion, chilli, orange juice and garlic. Season to taste.

• 5 Heat a large, non-stick frying pan over medium; heat tortillas, in batches, 15 seconds each side. Wrap tortillas in foil to keep warm.

• 6 Increase heat to high; cook fish in same pan, in two batches, 4 minutes or until just cooked.

• 7 Serve warm tortilla filled with fish and slaw, topped with avocado cream.

Notes

The fish can be prepared 4 hours ahead to the end of step 1. Avocado cream and coleslaw (without the orange juice) can also be prepared 4 hours ahead; add juice to coleslaw just before serving.

Compost bins and worm farms are two great ways to recycle your fruit and vegetable scraps at home and turn organic material into rich nutrients for the garden.

Composting and worm farming at home is simple, and good for the environment by reducing the amount of organic waste that goes to landfill and creating a more natural and healthier place to live.

Worm farms produce great natural fertiliser for your garden, take up very little space and are easy-to-use.

The Botanic Gardens are hosting the workshop on Saturday, May 20, from 9am to 11am. To view other available sessions in 2023 and to register, visit the website below

https://www.mackay.qld.gov.au/residents/services/waste/worm_farms_and_composting

Mackay Regional Council sponsors free composting and worm farming workshops each year.

Workshop dates proposed for 2024 are as follows:

• Saturday, February 10th – Sarina Landcare

• Saturday, March 9th – Slade Point Community Gardens

• Saturday, May 18th – Mackay Botanic Gardens

• Saturday, September 7th – Melba House

• Saturday, November 16th – Mackay Community Garden