Places worth discovering

Things to Do

Find attractions, experiences and places to visit. Events remain the best way to see what is happening on a particular date.

Looking for a dated event? Explore Events

124 places

Explore local places

Cathu State Forest — Image credit: Queensland Government

Natural Attractions

Cathu State Forest

Along the rugged Clarke Range behind the Whitsunday coast is Cathu State Forest. Forests and woodlands range from distinctive poplar gum Eucalyptus platyphylla woodlands and exotic Caribbean pine plantations on the creek flats to dense rainforest, hoop pine plantations and tall wet eucalypt forest along the range. This is a quiet retreat for people who like to relax and enjoy the bush. We suggest you go for a walk and discover the forest wildlife. Ulysses butterflies, whiptail and agile wallabies and northern quolls live in the forest. Take your binoculars and go birdwatching. More than 100 species of birds have been seen in the forest. Nestled along Pandanus creek, enjoy a peaceful nights' rest at Juxut camping area. Venture out for a scenic drive beyond Jaxut camping area to Cathu lookout. Located 7km from Jaxut camping area the lookout offers spectacular views over the Clarke Range. Suitable for 4WD vehicles only. Saddle-up and explore Cathu State Forest on horseback. Horseriding is allowed on the public access road in this State forest. Horses are not permitted in Jaxut camping and picnic area. Or take your bicycle for a pedal on the public access road through the State forest.

Yalboroo QLD

1.6 km away

Araluen Cascades

Natural Attractions

Finch Hatton Gorge

Finch Hatton Gorge is nestled in the heart of the breathtaking Pioneer Valley in the Mackay Region, it is more than just a destination it's and unforgettable adventure waiting to be discovered. Finch Hatton is surrounded by a spectacular landscape of cascading waterfalls, lush rainforest, and dramatic volcanic boulder formations, this natural wonder is a must see for anyone craving beauty and exploration. Finch Hatton Gorge has picnic area at the beginning of one of its most popular trails, guiding you on a 1.6km journey to the stunning Araluen Waterfall, a perfect spot for soaking up the serenity. For those eager to go further, continue another 1.4km to the awe-inspiring Wheel of Fire Cascades. This is a more challenging trek, with up hill climbs and stairs, but rewarding you with sweeping views and a magnificent waterfall plunging into a deep, inviting pool, ideal for a well earned swim. With welcoming accommodation and dining options nearby, it's easy to turn your visit into a relaxing getaway in one of the Mackay's Region's most captivating treasures. Whether you're chasing adventure or tranquillity, Finch Hatton Gorge delivers. From invigorating rainforest hikes and gorge swims, there's something for every kind of explorer.

Finch Hatton QLD

30 km away

Finch Hatton MTB's first event - Fox Superflow by Rocky Trail Entertainment — Image credit: Rocky Trail Entertainment

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Finch Hatton MTB

Welcome to the sweetest mountain bike trails in Queensland. Finch Hatton MTB consists of 16 airflow trails of varying difficulty. Green, Blue and Black Diamond trails cater to all experience levels, from first-timers to gravity enduro specialists. Hit the 14.5km of trails without a worry—no fees, no bookings, just ride. The trails deliver multiple options for riders to test themselves on jumps and obstacles – or take it easy and keep your tyres on the dirt. These trails are designed for riders to progressively improve on each run Open all year round during daylight hours (weather permitting). Start your adventure at the Finch Hatton MTB Trailhead, where you will find amenities, hydration stations and a bike wash. Also located at the Trailhead is the Finch Hatton MTB Pump Track which spans more than 400 metres in length and offers a huge range of hump styles and sizes for riders of all ages and skill levels to enjoy. Access the trail network via the climbing trail G’Day G’Day or grab an uplift with the shuttle service, Off Camber Mountain Biking. With trails and pump track that cater to all levels of experience, from beginner to advanced, and the natural beauty of an ancient rainforest as your backdrop, Finch Hatton MTB offers an unrivalled biking adventure in Queensland.

Finch Hatton QLD

35 km away

Finch Hatton MTB Pump Track — Image credit: Mackay Regional Council

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Finch Hatton MTB Pump Track

Finch Hatton MTB Pump Track spans 400m and offers a huge range of hump styles and sizes for riders of all ages and skill levels to enjoy. The track also hosts racing events and is located at the Finch Hatton MTB Trailhead. The pump track is a continuous loop of rollers, berms and jumps around which riders can ride bicycles by using a pumping motion. By using a pumping motion, riders can maintain their speed around the pump track without pedalling. Keep moving your hip, legs and arms and keep the rhythm. If you push and pull powerfully, you get really fast. Finch Hatton MTB Pump Track was designed and constructed by pump track specialist, Bike Tracks Australia.

Finch Hatton QLD

35 km away

Cape Hillsborough

Natural Attractions

Hibiscus Coast

Hibiscus Coast is located 20km north of Mackay, where a string of charming seaside escapes awaits. This stunning stretch includes, Seaforth, Halliday Bay, Ball Bay, and Cape Hillsborough. It's the ultimate coastal retreat, think peaceful beaches, shady picnic spots and soothing soundtrack of waves and wildlife. Cape Hillsborough National Park lies at the heart of the Hibiscus Coast, where lush rainforest meets the sparkling waters of the Coral Sea. Here you can stroll along breathtaking beach shared with friendly wallabies at sunrise, explore scenic walking trails, and soak in panoramic coastal views. For something more off grid, set your sights on Newry Island National Park, Launch your boat from Victor Creek and camp on a remote island, where you'll find the intriguing remains of an abandoned resort near the campsite, adding a touch of mystery to your island escape.

Cape Hillsborough QLD

38 km away

Platypus at Eungella National Park

National Parks and Reserves

Platypus Viewing at Broken River

Eungella National Park, approximately a one hour drive west of Mackay, is home to one of the most reliable spots in Australia to spot the elusive platypus - in the wild! From the viewing decks at Broken River, spot this shy creature in its natural habitat, as well as turtles and other wildlife in this beautiful National Park. The best times to see this special monotreme are at dawn or dusk. The Broken River bridge also provides an excellent vantage point to see platypus swimming in the river below. Platypus are quite shy, so remain as still and as quiet as possible to increase your chances of seeing one. Also, keep an eye out for air bubbles, as the platypus feeds from the bottom but surfaces to chew its food and breathe. Between bushwalks, stop for a bite to eat at Platypus Lodge Cafe, where you can also read some information about the national park. There are 22 kilometres of walking trails in Eungella, as well as accommodation, restaurants and cafes. Try to spot a platypus if you can!

Eungella QLD

40 km away

Broken River View Platform — Image credit: TEQ

Natural Attractions

Broken River

Broken River is located approximately 90km from Mackay, in the beautiful tranquil Eungella National Park. Broken River travels through the picturesque Pioneer Valley, with the specular climb up the Eungella Range to Eungella township Broken River is an excellent place to enjoy bush walks within Australia's largest stretch of continuous sub-tropical rainforest. The platypus viewing deck is near Broken River's picnic grounds, where amenities such as public toilets, picnic tables and barbecues can be found. Camping permits and information about Broken River is available from the nearby Ranger's Station. Platypus viewing is best done in the late afternoon or early morning. Look for air bubbles and ripples in the water to watch the platypus quickly surface. Stay still and quiet to improve your chances of seeing one. When visiting a rainforest environment it is wise to carry insect repellent to protect from mosquitoes. Never attempt a river crossing when flooded and exercise caution during the wet season between November and April, as creek levels can rise quickly.

Eungella QLD

40 km away

Mia Mia State Forest — Image credit: DETSI

Natural Attractions

Mia Mia State Forest

Mia Mia State Forest is nestled in the Clarke Range and bounded by Teemburra Creek and the Pioneer River 60 km West of Mackay. Mia Mia State Forest features open eucalypt forest dissected by numerous deep gullies and rocky water courses and is a haven for wildlife. Mia Mia State Forest's clay soil of the forest was once used by locals to make bricks before the hoop pine plantations were established in 1934. The first plantation hoop pines were grown in a 12ha section of land in the north of the forest with the last plantation trees planted in 1991. Remnant pines from the former plantation can be seen along the access road as you travel down Teemburra Creek. 4WD access ONLY

Mackay QLD

41 km away

Nearby Andrews Point Lookout at Cape Hillsborough — Image credit: Mackay Isaac Tourism

Natural Attractions

Ball Bay

Ball Bay is a picturesque beach settlement 35 kilometres north of Mackay, which offers secluded camping on a small grassy campground. Ball Bay, you can fish off the beach in this small piece of paradise, surrounded by lush bushland and offers easy and close access to Cape Hillsborough National Park walking tracks. Flatback turtles have been sighted hatching in the early hours of the summer months.

Ball Bay QLD

41 km away

Smalleys Beach

National Parks and Reserves

Smalleys Beach

Smalleys Beach is situated approximately 35 kilometres north of Mackay and is part of the Hibiscus Coast. This secluded beach is also located in the Cape Hillsborough National Park and offers limited camping sites. Facilities include toilets, and small secluded sites. Water must be brought with you. Camping is by self registration. A gravel road can be accessed from Cape Hillsborough Road to Smalleys Beach to camping sites. Camping sites have great access to the picturesque beach and walking trails. Visit the National Parks website to make a booking.

Cape Hillsborough QLD

42 km away

Eungella Dam

Natural Attractions

Eungella Dam

Eungella Dam is a scenic lake fringed by rainforest, the ideal spot for boating and skiing with peaceful natural surrounds. Camping is by self-registration on-site. No motorbikes allowed. Fishing permits are required and can be obtained from local tackle shops and Mackay Tourism. From the township of Eungella, take the Eungella Dam Road past Broken River. The last portion of the drive is unsealed, where the landscape turns from rainforest into high country farms. Beware of wandering stock as cows roam free along this road. The dam is stocked with Sooty Grunter, Saratoga, Sleepy Cod and Barramundi and is renowned for producing oversized Sooty Grunter. There are no boating restrictions for the dam and small boats can be launched from the boat ramp. Camping is permitted in the area with facilities available such as cold showers, toilets, barbecues and picnic tables. A second block of public toilets and more picnic tables can be found across the other side of the water, near the dam itself. Access is by normal vehicle with some dirt road along the way. Self-registration station located at camping area toilet block allows campers to stay overnight at AUD5 per night or AUD15 per night for a family. Dogs on leashes are allowed.

Eungella QLD

44 km away

Platypus Beach

Natural Attractions

Platypus Beach, Mirani

Platypus Beach is a popular swimming hole for locals and tourists, a little slice of sandy paradise on the bank of the Pioneer River, near the country town of Mirani. Platypus Beach, is a beautiful location to enjoy swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding and picnics. As the name eludes, there is even the possibility of seeing a platypus in its natural environment. Platypus Beach is a short drive from Mirani, under the Mirani Bridge along the Mackay-Eungella Road. Platypus Beach has recently-renovated natural attraction includes a sealed access road, picnic facilities, informative signs and shelter. There are currently no toilets and visitors must take rubbish with them to keep this attraction unspoiled.

Mirani QLD

45 km away

Fossillised remains of a proto-crocodile — Image credit: Friends of Pioneer Valley Museum

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Pioneer Valley Museum

In 1986 the Mirani Shire Council purchased a collection of artefacts from Jack Williams of Eungella. With the aid of a bicentennial grant, the council built a large modern building that houses the Shire's Library and the Museum, which displays the Jack Williams Collection. The Museum opened in September 1988. The collection expanded rapidly so the Museum section was extended to double its size in 1990. The small but beautifully presented social history Museum includes a display on the Sugar Industry, Indigenous artifacts, a large natural history section which includes the fossilised remains of a Diprotodon and a reading nook with photo albums, local family history booklets and many publications relating to the Valley. Make sure to stop in and say hello to the volunteers on your journey towards Eungella.

Mirani QLD

46 km away

Proserpine Museum — Image credit: Tourism Whitsundays

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Proserpine Historical Museum

Visit the Historical Proserpine Museum, where you can explore the fascinating history of this sugar cane and cattle town, as well as the wider Whitsundays region. The facility serves as a multi-purpose venue that houses the museum's collection and provides opportunities for genealogical research and extensive studies of local history. The museum features a vast array of printed materials, photographs, and artifacts that reflect the area’s history, from its first inhabitants—the Juru, Gia, Bira, and Ngaro people—to the early European pioneers and post-war settlers. This cultural centre not only offers educational benefits to locals and visitors alike, but it has also become a hub for local arts and crafts, book fairs, and traveling exhibitions. Importantly, the museum is managed and maintained entirely by volunteers.

Proserpine QLD

47 km away

Gallery — Image credit: Linda Forrester

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Community Art Gallery - Creative Connections Whitsunday

Creative Connections Community Gallery is a welcoming local art space in the heart of Proserpine, showcasing original artworks, handmade gifts and artist merchandise by talented creatives from across the Whitsundays. The gallery features a changing collection of paintings, photography, ceramics, sculpture, textiles, jewellery and mixed media works. Visitors are warmly invited to browse, be inspired and support local artists while discovering the creative spirit of our region.

Proserpine QLD

47 km away

Wallabies on the Beach at Cape Hillsborough

Natural Attractions

Wallabies on the Beach at Cape Hillsborough

Cape Hillsborough National Park, approximately 45 minutes north of Mackay, is where you'll find rainforest meets the shoreline, volcanic headlands, eucalypt forests home to koalas and kookaburras and prehistoric rock formations. Cape Hillsborough Beach provides one of the most iconic Australian photo backdrops and is a dream for photographers searching for that 'wow' shot. Wallabies and kangaroos scour the morning tide for mangrove seed pods, seaweed and coral sand dollars. Enjoy the sunrise as wild marsupials bound up and down the beach. Remember however, that these are wild animals and should be treated as such. Please do not feed the kangaroos and wallabies and ensure to keep a safe distance at all times.

Cape Hillsborough QLD

47 km away

Aerial view of Cedar Creek falls in Conway National Park — Image credit: Tourism Whitsundays

Natural Attractions

Cedar Creek Falls

A beloved destination for tourists and locals alike, Cedar Creek Falls is a serene sanctuary of pristine natural beauty and tranquility. Tucked away behind a curtain of trees and rocks, this hidden gem is like a well-kept secret waiting to be discovered. Follow the winding path and let the lush trees and bushes guide you to this breathtaking oasis. With its loyal following, Cedar Creek Falls is the perfect destination for a refreshing dip in freshwater. Surrounded by majestic cedar trees and a towering rocky wall, the cascading waterfall with its sparkling water will take your breath away. Cedar Creek Falls is nestled halfway between Airlie Beach and Proserpine, only 30 and 20 kilometres away, respectively. As you make your way to the falls, you’ll be treated to a scenic drive through picturesque countryside, with stunning views of lush cane fields. Upon arriving, you’ll find the falls just a short stroll away from the parking area, making it the perfect destination for a quick day trip. With its convenient location and easy access, Cedar Creek Falls is the ideal escape for anyone seeking a tranquil retreat without the hassle of a long journey. Please note: For your own safety, jumping and diving from the waterfall is strictly prohibited.

Palm Grove QLD

47 km away

Marian Sugar Mill

Landmarks and Buildings

Marian Sugar Mill

The largest factory managed by Mackay Sugar, Marian Mill is situated approximately 30 minutes from the CBD in the regional town of Marian - nestled amongst some of the highest yielding sugar cane land in our region. On average, Marian Mill produces approximately 280,000 tonnes of raw sugar, 70,000 tonnes of molasses and exports 6,900 MW hours of electricity. Marian Mill was first built in 1885, but closed after a few years. The Marian Central Mill Co Ltd erected a new mill in 1894 under the Sugar Guarantee Act, and the first crushing took place in 1895. In 1966, the shareholders of Marian Central Mill Co Ltd voted to sell the assets and liabilities of that company to the cane farmers supplying the mill, who formed the Marian Mill Co-operative Society Limited. In 1988, Marian Mill, together with Cattle Creek, Farleigh, North Eton and Racecourse mills, amalgamated and purchased Pleystowe Mill to form the Mackay Sugar Co-operative Association Limited. A unique feature is the mural on the Engineering shed depicting a cane fire - rarely seen these days as most cane is cut green. Access is restricted but easily visible from the road. You will pass by the Marian Mill just before you reach Melba House.

Marian QLD

49 km away

Fishing at an inland dam

Natural Attractions

Teemburra Dam

Teemburra Dam is Located in the picturesque Pioneer Valley, approximately 50 kilometres west of Mackay City on a fully sealed road. Teemburra Dam is a nature-lover's paradise. Made up of a mass of inlets and coves, it is easy to become entranced with the birds, fish and platypus which inhabit the area. Teemburra Dam was constructed in 1997 to cope with the increasing demand for town water storage and irrigation purposes. The dam itself has a surface area of 1040 hectares, an average depth of 14.2 metres and holds 147 500 megalitres of water at full capacity. Teemburra Dam is stocked by a local fish stocking group MAFSA with Sooty Grunter and Barramundi, who have also set up their own community hatchery to breed Sooty Grunter. A 25 horsepower limit applies to all boats here with no water skiing allowed. A single lane concrete ramp is provided. There is no camping allowed at the dam, however, accommodation can be found in Finch Hatton Gorge, Eungella National Park and Kinchant Dam. A Stocked Impoundment Permit (SIP) is required to fish at Teemburra Dam. Make the most of your trip to the Mackay Region and fish at not only Teemburra Dam, but Kinchant and Eungella Dam as well. Access is via a normal vehicle.

Pinnacle QLD

50 km away

Melba House, Marian, the first marital home of Nellie Melba before she became famous.

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Melba House, Marian

The legendary diva Dame Nellie Melba spent the first year of her married life in a small house right in the heart of the Pioneer Valley, in Marian. The house, built in 1882/83 and rescued from demolition by the Mirani Shire Council, was relocated from Marian Mill to a more prominent riverbank setting in Edward Lloyd Park. It now houses an accredited Visitor Information Centre, Melba Memorabilia display, an extensive array of local handmade gifts and souvenirs and Vintage Kiss Cafe (Cafe hours Tues-Fri 6am to 2.000pm/Sat-Sun 7.30am to 12.30pm). Lloyd Park stretches for one kilometre along the bank of the Pioneer River and features a walking path, children's playground, barbecue facilities, and the 'Hens & Roosters' toilet block as well as access to the river for fishing, swimming, canoeing and platypus spotting - or just sitting and contemplating the beauty of the 'blue water' river.

Marian QLD

50 km away

Canecutter Memorial, Marian Qld

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Cane Cutter Memorial

The Cane Cutter Memorial is a significant heritage landmark located at Melba House in Marian, approximately 28 kilometres from Mackay. Erected in 1994, the memorial honours the pioneering families who helped establish and shape the Marian district. Situated within Edward Lloyd Park, beside the historic Melba House, the statue stands as a tribute to the region's strong agricultural roots. Plaques on the plinth record the names of residents who settled in the district prior to 1900, while additional panels acknowledge families who made Marian their home in the years that followed. The statue is surrounded by a grove of trees planted by members of the pioneering families. The Cane Cutter Memorial offers visitors a chance to connect with the history, resilience, and community spirit that underpin the Mackay Isaac region.

Marian QLD

51 km away

The Pioneer Valley

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

The Pioneer Valley

A wonderland of waterfalls, lush flora and volcanic boulder formations contrast against a tapestry of sugar cane fields as you head through The Pioneer Valley and Eungella National Park. Apart from being one of the richest sugar cane growing areas in Australia, this valley is by far one of the most picturesque in Australia, encompassing many rural townships where warm hospitality and delicious food can be enjoyed. Small towns to stop in along the way include Marian, Mirani, Pinnacle, Finch Hatton and finally, Eungella. Marian, the gateway to the valley, is home to the region's largest sugar mill. Call into Melba House, an accredited Visitor Information Centre on the banks of the Pioneer River, to discover the house of famous Australian opera singer Dame Nellie Melba. Enjoy coffee and waffles at Vintage Kiss, a quaint cafe that operates on the verandah of Melba House. After morning tea, continue on to Mirani and stop in at the popular swimming hole, Platypus Beach, just past the bridge. Finch Hatton is a must-do. Hit the world-class mountain bike trails, with bike hire and transfers available, or travel to Finch Hatton Gorge where you can walk explore the Araluen Cascades and the Wheel of Fire waterfalls and swim in clear rock pools as water cascades from above. Explore the Pioneer Valley via self-drive or with a guided tour.

Eungella QLD

51 km away

Walking path through park — Image credit: Melba House

Natural Attractions

Edward Lloyd Park, Marian

Edward Lloyd Park is a a great river-side park enjoyed by locals and valley visitors alike. Close to Melba House and with access to a picturesque walking trail, this park is a great weekend destination. A shaded sand softfall playground caters ages 2 to 12. It's named after the Clerk (1921 to 1954) of the former Mirani Shire, Edward Lloyd, who was instrumental in preserving and maintaining parkland in the Shire. In addition to improved parking areas which can cater for all vehicles up to large buses and caravans, the park now boasts a family friendly playground, picnic shelters, barbecues and modern public toilets. There is also a concrete walking/cycling track from Melba House to Marian State School - a distance of just over one kilometre - which is very popular with fitness seekers and walkers as it meanders along the Pioneer River bank giving views of the river and birdlife which frequents the area. If you are really lucky, you may see the local platypus sporting about.

Marian QLD

51 km away

Pioneer River, Marian, Qld, near Melba House

Natural Attractions

Pioneer River, Marian

The Pioneer River, one of the few 'blue water' rivers in Queensland, and its main tributary, Cattle Creek, flow through the heart of the Pioneer Valley, from the Clarke Connors Ranges in the South and West to the Pacific Ocean at Mackay. Access to the river is restricted by freehold ownership except for a few areas such as beside Edward Lloyd Park where access paths are maintained, including one just 50 metres from Melba House. Access in the Valley to the river is also possible at Pleystowe (boat ramp), Mirani (Platypus Beach - next to road bridge), Mia Mia (next to the road bridge), Pinevale, Gargett (next to road bridge), and Neem Hall (Finch Hatton). Canoeing, kayaking, platypus spotting and swimming are just a few of the activities the river provides. Local residents fish the river for sooty grunter and barramundi - both species are renowned for their fighting ability. In addition, groups of Platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) are frequently seen near their burrows on the northern bank behind Melba House. A wide variety of native and migratory bird species, including ducks, swans, pelicans and cormorants, and fresh water turtles also frequent the river. Flowing through the heart of the Mackay Region, the Pioneer River is one of Mackay's greatest attractions.

Marian QLD

51 km away

What is happening now?

Search dated events, markets, live music, sport and community activities.

Planning by place?

Use Things to Do for attractions and experiences that are not tied to one event date.