Caravanners Insiders Guide
The Mackay region is filled with quaint country towns, an intriguing city and secluded beaches and national parks where the only footprints are yours. Long serving volunteer at the Mackay Visitor Information Centre, Bev Radke, shares her tips for visiting the region.
The best spot to view a Platypus in the wild
Just 80km west of Mackay, Eungella National Park has 22 kilometres of walking trails through tropical rainforest, with spectacular views of the sugar cane fields in the Pioneer Valley. On your way, stop for a swim at Finch Hatton Gorge, unspoilt nature at its best. Broken River is heralded as the top spot in Australia to view a Platypus in the wild – be sure to go at dawn or dusk!
Reel in a winner with world-class fishing
The Mackay region is one of the few places in Australia where almost all types of fishing are available. Wet a line at Mackay Harbour, in the Pioneer River or Carmila (60km south of Sarina), to snag mackerel, jewfish, bream or flathead. Kinchant, Teemburra and Theresa Creek Dams are famous for their Barramundi and Sooty Grunter, all within 40km to 300km of Mackay.
Watch the sunrise with wallabies
Head to the beach at Cape Hillsborough National Park, 40km north-west of Mackay, and get close with Agile wallabies, amongst other wildlife including turkeys, echidnas, possums and turtles. Take a walk through Hidden Valley and watch as the landscape changes dramatically. Andrews Point lookout is famous for its gorgeous view over the untamed, rocky coastline.
Soak up country hospitality in the Isaac region
History comes alive in bush towns like Nebo in the Isaac region (90km west of Mackay). Admire relics in the museum or experience what was a bustling gold mine centre at Mt. Britton. Take a tour through a working coal mine near Moranbah and stop in at the coast to spot dugongs at Clairview or park up at Notch Point or Cape Palmerston for a beachside fix.
So if you are looking for unspoilt nature, make sure you stop in and visit the Mackay-Isaac region.