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Cane to Cocktail

Agritourism

Cane to Cocktail

Come and join them for their 'Paddock to Glass Experience', interactive and fun, learn how they make their liqueurs, their flavour profiles and how to mix for maximum enjoyment! Journey through their distillery process and discover how they transform sugar cane into premium spirits. Enjoy delicious nibbles, tastings of their handcrafted products, and sample a signature cocktail or mocktail. With plenty of fun, fascinating insights, and laughs along the way, their Cocktail Experience is an unforgettable event.

Sarina QLD

0.1 km away

Sarina Sugar Shed

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Sarina Sugar Shed

Sarina Sugar Shed is a multi-award winning attraction that offers a genuine and authentic paddock-to-plate food tourism experience that explores the journey of sugar production, from sugarcane to their finished distilled products and homemade condiments. Through their daily guided tours, Sarina Sugar Shed celebrates the achievements of the sugar cane pioneers who brought great prosperity to the region through their back-breaking work and mechanical ingenuity, and then, via their miniature mill, they demonstrate the process of taking the raw sugar cane plant and turning it into both crystallised sugar ready for refining and ethanol for alcohol production. The journey ends with tastings of the products that they produce which highlight the many delicious uses of sugar, including rum, rum liqueurs and fruit liqueurs made onsite in the boutique distillery, plus their range of Sugar Shed chutneys, relishes and sauces, and non-alcoholic ginger beer. With offerings in the café, such as house-baked scones with homemade strawberry jam, cheese and tasting platters using their own chutneys and relishes, and 6 flavours of ice cream made in-house, Sarina Sugar Shed is a true food tourism experience, satisfying the sweet tooth of all ages.

Sarina QLD

0.1 km away

Clairview

Natural Attractions

The Serenity Coast

Take an opportunity to explore a relatively unspoiled area that has retained much of its original historic charm while having developed into a thriving business area. Collectively known as the Serenity Coast, the townships that stretch from Hay Point to St Lawrence enjoy a selection of beautiful beaches and prime fishing locations. Enjoy the area's country hospitality, scenic mountain ranges, national parks and prime fishing locations. Some of the key attractions within the Serenity Coast include Cape Palmerston National Park, Notch Point and the dugong sanctuary in Clairview. Visit one of many unspoiled beaches providing swimming, sailing and fishing as well as sweeping views of the surrounding coastline from selected lookouts. The undeveloped wilderness surrounding Cape Palmerston's camping areas provides access to excellent fishing locations and rugged bush walks. Experience magical glimpses of elusive fireflies which inhabit the bushland area in the evening. One of the most historic towns on the Queensland Coast, St Lawrence was originally built to service the Customs Office for the Port of St Lawrence. Many historic buildings can be viewed in the town. This is the perfect area to plan your next family holiday - camping on the beach, exploring the coastline and switching off while enjoying the wilderness.

Sarina QLD

0.5 km away

BUFFY - the Cane Toad

Landmarks and Buildings

BUFFY - the Cane Toad

Bufo Marinus—though around Sarina, he's known to everyone as "Buffy" the town's most charming oversized Cane Toad. Perched proudly in the centre of Sarina, about 35 kilometres south of Mackay, Buffy didn't start life as a permanent resident. Back in 1983, he was lovingly crafted from paper mâché as a float for a local sugar festival. But the locals liked him so much that they couldn't bear to let him hop away—so he was recast in sturdy fibreglass and given a forever home as a tribute to Sarina's cane-farming roots. Today, Buffy sits smack-bang on Broad Street (which also happens to be the Bruce Highway), relaxing between the northbound and southbound lanes like the unofficial traffic controller of Sarina. The area around Buffy is surprisingly well-equipped for toad-spotting. You'll find angled parking, public loos, a gazebo, rubbish bins, and shaded picnic tables—all perfect for settling in, enjoying a snack, and grabbing a must-have photo with one of Queensland's most iconic "big things." Hop on over, say hi, and don't forget to snap your best toadally awesome selfie with Buffy!

Sarina QLD

0.7 km away

Armstrong Beach

Natural Attractions

Armstrong Beach

Armstrong Beach is south of Mackay drive from the township of Sarina. From Sarina, head south along the Bruce Highway and turn left onto Armstrong Beach Road, signposted from the highway. Armstrong Beach is renowned for its fishing and prawning, both of which are best attempted from the beach. A Four Wheel Drive is required to launch a boat from the beach. There is a small community at Armstrong Beach, and accommodation is available at the local caravan park. From Armstrong Beach head to Freshwater Point, which is where Captain Cook first landed in 1770 looking for freshwater, hence its name. Armstrong Beach facilities include a picnic area.

Armstrong Beach QLD

7.6 km away

Grasstree Beach

Natural Attractions

Grasstree Beach

Grasstree Beach is one of the most picturesque and beautiful beaches in the Mackay Region, located within a 15 minute drive from Sarina. Nestled in sheltered Zelma Bay, the shallow beach is a popular swimming destination, although it is not patrolled. It is fringed by a large grassy recreational area, complete with public toilets, picnic tables and a children's playground. With nearby reefs, islands and creeks, fishing is plentiful either by boat or straight off the beach near the creek mouth. There are boat ramps on each side of Cabbage Tree Creek. There is a convenience store approximately 100 metres from the public toilet location of the beach.

Grasstree Beach QLD

10 km away

Sarina Beach Esplanade

Natural Attractions

Sarina Beach

Sarina Beach a favourite coastal escape for both locals and visitors alike, in the Mackay Region. Just minutes from the township of Sarina, this relaxed seaside destination invites you to slow down and soak in the stunning ocean views with Golden sands, rolling waves and nesting turtles. Sarina Beach is perfect for a family day out, beachside picnic or leisurely afternoon by the sea. Enjoy a meal overlooking the coastline at the beachfront restaurant located at the end of the esplanade, where fresh sea breezes and scenic views complete the experience, Fringed by a shady esplanade park with picnic areas and barbecue facilities. Sarina Beach is patrol season, the beach is watched over by the local Surf Lifesaving Club, making it a popular spot for swimming and seaside fun. Visitors can also stay a little longer with convenient motel-style accommodation nearby. Try your luck fishing straight from the beach or explore the rocky northern point where shellfish can often be found among the rocks. Just a short drive away, Campwin Beach offers another picturesque coastal stop. Take in sweeping views from the lookout overlooking Grasstree Beach — the perfect place to pause, relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the Mackay region.

Sarina QLD

11 km away

Salonika Beach

Parks and Gardens

Grendon Park

Grendon Park is nestled between Half Tide and Salonika Beaches, named after the original owners of the land prior to its development. Facilities include toilets, picnic tables, shelter, barbecue and a playground. It offers sweeping views of nearby Salonika Beach, two kilometres of sandy beach which is popular with local residents for swimming. Fishing for Barramundi is popular, while bush turkeys and sea eagles are often spotted in the area. During turtle nesting season, these nearby beaches are also a popular nesting location.

Hay Point QLD

15 km away

Salonika Beach

Natural Attractions

Salonika Beach

Salonika Beach is north of Sarina and is the destination for many holidaymakers and Sarina residents. Salonika Beach is a tropical haven for visitors to Hay Point. The two-kilometre stretch of sandy beach is ideal for swimming and relaxation. Gaze out toward Victor Island, only one kilometre offshore. You can now rent out the entire Victor Island for a weekend by visiting the website. The natural preservation of the area means wildlife experiences are easy to come by, with black cockatoos, sea eagles and bush turkeys often seen. Nearby wetlands provide unique bird-watching opportunities. A playground and picnic tables can be found parallel to the beach. Unit accommodation is available at the southern end of Salonika Beach, which also has a licensed restaurant. At Salonika Beach there are rare sightings of loggerhead turtles, echidnas and on occasion, seasonal whales and dolphins. Salonika also gives you easy access to Hay Point and Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal complex, which is the largest coal export facility in the Southern Hemisphere, with a total capacity of over 50 million tonnes per annum. All of this can be seen from a nearby viewing platform.

Hay Point QLD

15 km away

Birdlife

Natural Attractions

Lake Barfield

Lake Barfield is located between the bustling beachside communities of Half Tide and Salonika Beach, near the Hay Point Coal Terminal. It is a small, picturesque lake that provides peaceful waters for a variety of fish, bird and animal life. Zealous birdwatchers will enjoy this beautiful bird sanctuary, home to graceful black swans, wondrous white herons and exquisite egrets. The lake was constructed by the Barfield family, one of the original founding families in the Hay Point Area. The freshwater lake sits on private land, so it is advisable to take binoculars to enjoy the prominent birdlife. This is a great spot to set up for an afternoon if you are an avid birdwatcher or wildlife photographer.

Hay Point QLD

16 km away

Hay Point — Image credit: Port of Hay Point

Agritourism

Port of Hay Point Lookout

The Port of Hay Point, 30 kilometres south of Mackay, is one of the biggest and most efficient coal ports in the world. The Port Administration building features a public viewing gallery offering fantastic views of the two coal terminals. From the viewing area you will see two separate coal terminals - the Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal and the Hay Point Services Coal Terminal. The terminals are operated independently, each one comprises rail unloading equipment, stockpiles with stacking and reclaiming equipment, conveyors and ship loaders on off-shore wharves. Together the two terminals serve the mines of Central Queensland. The mines are linked to the port terminals through an integrated rail-port network. Both terminals have purpose-built in-loading facilities, on-shore stockpile yards and off-shore wharves. Loading takes place on a 24 hours per day, 365 days per year basis - over 5,000 ships have departed Dalrymple Bay since the terminal was opened in 1983 and over 7,300 ships from Hay Point since it's opening in 1970.

Hay Point QLD

16 km away

Illawong Beach

Natural Attractions

Illawong Beach

Illawong Beach is a serene and peaceful coastline that awaits you! Illawong Beach a popular choice for sunrise strolls, kilometres of sandy shoreline, as well as off and on dog leash areas. At low tide, the ripples in the sand stretch for kilometres, where small blue soldier crabs can be seen scuttling across the surface. Avid fishermen cast from the beach or into the mangrove-lined creeks, a popular local fishing spot. Windsurfers can often be seen at this beach, with the view of nearby islands and the Hay Point Coal Terminal in the distance. Illawong Beach is home to Quota Park, with public facilities including toilets, barbecues, picnic tables and a playground. There is also public fitness equipment at Quota Park for those looking for variety in their workout. A colourful flower garden at Quota Park is often home to many colourful butterflies. A nearby oceanside resort offers accommodation and dining options. At the northern end of the beach, there is another playground with barbeque facilities, beach volleyball and mini-golf; as well as another resort providing accommodation.

Mackay QLD

28 km away

Picnic Table beside Town Beach

Natural Attractions

Town Beach

Popular for its sensational sunrises, Town Beach offers great views of Flat and Round Top Islands and Dalrymple Bay. Town Beach is very popular with locals and visitors for late afternoon walks, fishing and watching the impact of Mackay's huge tides which can go out for miles during peak times. The south-easterly sea breeze makes this a popular location for kite boarding. The beach is fringed by Iluka Park, with an all-abilities playground, picnic tables, public toilets and barbecues. The Bluewater Trail starts here, winding past grasslands and mangroves as it heads toward the Pioneer River. Town Beach is only a five minute drive from Mackay's city heart and is a terrific option for a picnic or afternoon stroll.

Mackay QLD

30 km away

Harrup Park

Entertainment Venues

Harrup Park

Experience the vibrant heart of Mackay at Harrup Park, your ultimate destination for sports, entertainment, and exquisite dining. Indulge in a culinary journey at The Bistro and Boundary Cafe, where our talented Pastry Chef Alison crafts delectable homemade cakes, tarts, and pastries alongside mouthwatering lunch and dinner options. Step into a world of excitement with our 200-machine gaming room, lively sports bar, and relaxing deck bar. Families are welcomed with open arms at the kids club, while their state-of-the-art function and event center provides the perfect venue for any occasion. Embrace the thrill of the brand-new Great Barrier Reef Arena, hosting world-class sport and entertainment events. At Harrup Park, they're more than just a venue – they're a community hub, proudly supporting over 40 sports clubs. Join them, and become a part of something special. Discover where you truly belong at Harrup Park.

South Mackay QLD

30 km away

Waterfall in the Mackay Botanic Gardens — Image credit: Brooke Miles

Parks and Gardens

Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens

Located just five kilometres from the Mackay City Centre, the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens showcases the beautiful tropical flora from Mackay and the Whitsundays, along with other beautiful Australian native and exotic plants from similar climates around the world. This young botanic garden opened in 2003 and provides many resources to visitors - from over three kilometres of walking and cycling trails, wetland boardwalks, a unique cafe and gallery perched high above the wildlife filled lagoons, to excellent bird watching opportunities. Feature gardens include the luxuriant Fernery, the Regional Forest, rare and threatened flora of the tropical Shade Garden and the unique Coal Garden - tracing the evolution of plants and the importance of coal. Interesting art installments and information boards provide additional entertainment during a pleasant stroll. A cafe provides an array of food and refreshments with indoor and outdoor dining options, overlooking the wetland lagoon.

West Mackay QLD

30 km away

Far Beach

Natural Attractions

Far Beach

Far Beach is a popular walking beach with locals, recognised for its tranquility and soft white sand. At low tide an expansive sand flat is exposed giving walkers kilometres of beach to meander. The beach provides expansive views, from Hay Point to the south and toward Flat and Round Top Islands. Nearby resorts provide options for accommodation and dining. Far Beach is one of the nearest beaches to the Mackay City Centre, only a five minute drive away. A recreational area, Quota Park, fringes part of the beach at Binnington Esplanade and includes a playground, fitness equipment, picnic tables, barbecues and public toilets. There is also a beautiful flower garden located there, popular for being home to many butterflies. Northern Far Beach between Evans Street and Bridge Road is a designated off-leash dog friendly area. The southern end of Far Beach is accessible through sand dunes via four wheel drive, and it a popular location for fisherman at the Shellgrit Creek mouth.

Mackay QLD

31 km away

Iluka Park playground

Parks and Gardens

Iluka Park

Iluka Park is located on Binnington Esplanade at the ocean end of East Gordon Street, East Mackay. This area is commonly known as Town Beach by long-time residents of Mackay. This beach-side park includes a fully-fenced, shaded playground with softfall that caters for all-abilities and play equipment for for ages 2 to 12 featuring creative spaces such as a plant maze, a lookout and sand play area. There is also a cricket pitch, plenty of shade for picnics and public amenities. Some off-street car parking is available as well as on-street car parking. Several shelters are located throughout the park.

East Mackay QLD

31 km away

Orchid House

Parks and Gardens

The Ken Burgess Orchid House

Ken Burgess Orchid House, nestled within the historic Queens Park gardens in the Mackay Region. This tranquil space showcases a remarkable collection of rare and exquisite orchids, thoughtfully arranged to create a truly immersive experience. Built in 1988, the Orchid House is among Australia's largest and most impressive orchid display spaces. IT's naturalistic design features circular walkways that guide visitors through a stunning variety of orchids, ranging from delicate and elegant to bold and hexagonal shaped. Ken Burgess Orchid House holds hundreds of orchid varieties on display, including both native and tropical species from across the globe. The collection is regularly refreshed through seasonal rotations between the Orchid House and Council Nursery, ensuring there is always something new to discover year-round.

Mackay QLD

31 km away

Jubilee Park

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Jubilee Park, Mackay

Jubilee Park is located in the heart of the Mackay city on the corner of Wellington and Alfred Streets, near the Mackay Entertainment Centre and Convention Centre (MECC). The old fashioned band rotunda is located in the centre of the park and is surrounded by extensive grassed areas with several large shady fig trees close by. The park is also host to a number of war memorials and is the focal point of ANZAC Day commemorations each year on April 25. The fountain area provides a beautiful water feature as a scenic backdrop for an event or picnic.

Mackay QLD

32 km away

MECC Exterior

Entertainment Venues

Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre

There is always something happening at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC), situated in the heart of Mackay right in the City Centre. From stellar musical performances from international and national stars, comedy roadshows, local productions, nationally acclaimed opera and ballet companies touring and much more. The state-of-the-art facility is an ideal setting for your next conference, exhibition, seminar or banquet. There are many versatile spaces including a 1,090 seat theatre, 100 seat studio space, two plenary halls which when fully extended seat 1,800 people, two dedicated foyers, bars, an experimental theatre space, breakout rooms and extensive front-of-house and backstage facilities. The centre also comfortably accommodates 1,000 people banquet style.

Mackay QLD

32 km away

Outdoor function area

Entertainment Venues

Goanna Brewing

A Brew On-Premises Microbrewery, specialising in small batch preservative free brews. With a Home Brew store including a designated Grain Room, stocking all ingredients and equipment needed to brew. Enjoy the murals painted by a local artist in the Function and Tap room, Open for a tasting paddle or a day/night event.

Mackay QLD

32 km away

Mackay City Fountain

Landmarks and Buildings

MECC Precinct Fountain, Mackay

MECC Precinct Fountain, Mackay is an iconic thistle fountain is located in front of the council building on Gordon Street in Mackay. The fountain water regularly changes colour depending on the occasion, as an example the water may be turned pink in support of breast cancer awareness. MECC Precinct Fountain has ample car parking is available adjacent to Artspace and in the streets surrounding the Civic Precinct. The cafe at Artspace provides an opportunity for refreshment while viewing the fountain. Public amenities are within 200 metres in Wellington Street near council's Administration Building carpark. There are several areas of grass surrounding the fountain, perfect for weekend picnic.

Mackay QLD

32 km away

Mackay Town Hall

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Mackay Town Hall

Discover a living piece of Mackay's heritage at the Town Hall in Sydney Street, Mackay. It's a beautiful historic building in the centre of the city which has been transformed into a welcome centre assisting new residents in the Mackay region. Originally built in 1912 for the Mackay Municipal Council, the town hall served as the centre of local government for more than 60 years until the construction of the Mackay Civic Centre in 1975. History lovers should pick up a copy of the 'Mackay City Centre and Waterfront Heritage Trail' brochure from a Visitor Information Centre to learn more about the Town Hall and other heritage sites. Step back in time to learn about the story of Mackay's pioneering spirit, its people, heritage and culture while you journey through a range of sites and events that have shaped the city.

Mackay QLD

32 km away

Original Photo of the gentlemen — Image credit: unknown

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Maltese Corner

Maltese Corner in Mackay's CBD, is more than a monument - it is a living reminder of the people who helped build Mackay through hard work, cooperation and strong family values. Mackay's rich multicultural history is celebrated by a permanent public artwork honouring the pioneering Maltese community that has helped shaped the Mackay region. Maltese Corner features three life-sized silicon bronze statues depicting Emmanuel Camilleri, John Vassallo and Sam Bezzina. It is based on an iconic photograph by the late Joe Caruana taken at the site in 1994. Why not take a stroll down Victoria Street in the Mackay CDB and have a look at this stunning piece of history.

Mackay QLD

32 km away

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