Business categories in Mackay, QLD

Welcome to Mackay, QLD

Mackay is a city on the eastern coast of Queensland. It produces more than a third of Australia’s cane sugar and is called the sugar capital of Australia. The city has a population of 85,455.

History

Mackay takes its name from John Mackay. Mackay led an expedition into the Pioneer Valley in 1960. Captain Cook visited the area earlier, in 1770. Before white settlers arrived, the area was home to the Yuibera people.

The city has frequently suffered from storms and flooding. A 1918 storm was followed by an outbreak of bubonic plague. This caused a massive death toll. Subsequent floods happened in 1958 and 2008.

Lifestyle and Entertainment

Mackay’s main industry is sugar. Unfortunately, the industry has experienced a decline in the 2000s.

The city is also less popular with tourists than its neighbours are. Attractions include Mackay Marina Village, the nearby Pioneer Valley, and The Bluewater Trail.