From golden sandy beaches to the gorgeous Eungella National Park and plenty of activities for families, Mackay comprises it all in a picturesque location. The stunning Whitsunday Islands are just up the road which are known for its natural beauty and being a mecca for activity seekers. With 74 islands to explore, there are endless activities on offer. Here are some of the best things to do in Mackay and The Whitsundays with kids.
Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre (MECC)
All Ages
Hosting a range of performances throughout the year, the MECC really is a hub of entertainment for families.
Shows include concerts, exhibitions, musicals, and comedy, and many are aimed at kids. The Young People’s Entertainment season this year includes the 91-Storey Treehouse, The Gruffalo’s Child, The Owl and The Pussycat, Edward the Emu and much more that families are sure to enjoy.
P 07 4961 9777
A Alfred St, Mackay
www.themecc.com.au
Jarravale Alpacas and Miniature Animal Farm
All Ages | Prices start from $10
Get up close with a number of friendly farm animals. Get your photo taken with Latte the alpaca or bottle feed Bob the sheep. There are also guinea pigs, chickens, pigs, deer, miniature donkeys and goats to befriend and feed. Offering educational farm tours and birthday parties – a great family activity for all ages. Call to book.
P 0437 348 762
A 73 Devereux Creek Rd, Marian
www.jarravalealpaca.com.au
Ecojet Safari Airlie Beach
8+ years | Prices start from $195
Get off the beaten track and enjoy a thrilling guided jet ski tour through the unspoiled natural beauty of the Whitsundays. Discover untouched beaches, tangled mangroves and beautiful wildlife in their natural habitat along the way. You can get up close to them by snorkelling the unique reefs in the bay. Specialising in small group tours, this is a tour like no other.
P 0409 649 115
A 14 Altmann Ave, Airlie Beach
Eco Jet Safari Facebook Page
Forest Flying
5+ years | Prices start from $60
Have you ever dreamt of flying through the forest? Well, now you can. See the rainforest from a bird’s eye view by gliding through the treetops on a flying fox, taking in the beautiful scenery around you as you go. This unique experience lets you decide the speed yourself and see the region without disrupting the habitat. It’s an experience you’ll be talking about for years to come.
P 07 4958 3359
A 18 Oliver’s Rd, Finch Hatton Gorge
www.forestflying.com
Sidetrax
4+ years | Prices start from $30
Discover the thrill of go-kart racing at Sidetrax, an airconditioned indoor go-karting entertainment hub. Hop in a go-kart and get ready to race your friends to the finish line. Drivers must be at least seven years old to drive by themselves, or there are double seater karts for younger or disabled passengers. Rides go for 10 minutes, no bookings required.
P 07 4829 4707
A 275 Nebo Rd, West Mackay
www.sidetrax.com.au
Freckle Farm
All Ages
Freckle Farm conducts regular tours on how they produce their food, allowing families to discover the difference, get an insight on natural farming practices and learn top tips for an eco-friendly lifestyle. Learn about free range eggs, pork, beef and permaculture gardening. Tours are designed to be kid-friendly. You can even take a ride on the hay trailer!
P 07 4954 1724
A 247 Olletts Rd, Brightly
www.frecklefarm.com.au
Caneland Central
All Ages
Offering a Myer, Target, Big W, Woolworths, Coles and more than 160 specialty stores across fashion, food, jewellery, homewares, electronics, pharmaceuticals, services, gifts and more. Conveniently located in the heart of Mackay, it has everything you could need. There are regular events for kids including free workshops and performances, plus monthly kids club and toddler events.
P 07 4944 7111
A Cnr Mangrove Rd & Victoria St
www.canelandcentral.com.au
BIG4 Whitsundays Tropical Eco Resort
All Ages | Prices start from $10
Whitsundays Tropical Eco Resort is a family owned and run caravan park in Airlie Beach. Nestled in seven acres of shady tropical greenery, they have plenty to do for families including a playground, jumping pillow, quad bikes for hire, pool and a brand-new ninja challenge course. It’s a hub of family entertainment set in a peaceful tropical environment.
P 07 4946 9388
A 2955 Shute Harbour Rd, Flametree
www.whitsundaystropicalecoresort.com.au
Hamilton Island
All Ages
Hamilton Island is one of the Whitsunday Islands, and is one of the best islands for families as it is packed with a range of activities, from go-karting to kayaking and quad bike tours. It is completely carfree and covered in bushland, with
tours offering up-close sightings of kangaroos, koalas and more. With a number of dining options, there’s always something to suit every taste.
P 07 4946 9999
www.hamiltonisland.com.au
Mackay Libraries
All Ages | FREE
With numerous branches across the region, Mackay Libraries have plenty to offer for families. Become a library member and borrow any books that catch your attention or head on over for an event. There are regular sessions of baby bounce, toddler time and story time at various branches, as well as STEAM club, young adult time, bedtime stories and much more. Check
the website for details.
P 07 4961 9387
www.mackay.qld.gov.au
Wake House Australia
6+ years | Prices start from $20
Take on Mackay’s giant inflatable obstacle course on the water. Climb, jump and slide your way through in a great activity that will not only keep you fit, but having fun too.
Alternatively, Learn an awesome how to kneeboard and wakeboard in Wake House’s Grom Squad classes for kids, suitable for ages six to 12. Book online to avoid missing out.
P 1300 500 261
A 504 Michigan Way, Andergrove Lakes
www.wakehouse.com.au
Kidz Life Play Centre
All Ages | Prices start from $7.50
It’s slides, tunnels and ball pits galore at Kidz Life Play Centre. With a ball pit, triple deck play structure, huge double slide, fully fenced toddler area and much more, there is plenty of fun to be had. It’s all indoors and air conditioned, so it’s always playtime – rain, hail or shine. Parents receive a free drink from the café with admission. Don’t forget your socks!
P 07 4953 5575
A 75 Evans Ave, North Mackay
www.kidzlife.com.au
