Mackay to Whitsunday Islands
Urban centres: Mackay, Proserpine, Airlie Beach
Population: 174,816
Post codes: 4707, 4721, 4737–4805
Key industries: Agriculture, mining, and tourism
The beautiful Mackay region features tropical beaches, as well as world-famous island destinations scattered throughout the Great Barrier Reef – one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Urban centres provide numerous dining options, from casual waterside meals to rainforest retreats, hotels, and cafes. There are also plenty of recreational choices, such as golf courses, theatres, weekend arts, and entertainment venues that offer international and local performances.
The recent population and economic growth in the Mackay region has been fuelled mainly by global demand for sugar cane and resources mined in the western areas. The Whitsundays have a special emphasis on lifestyle, with high-quality food production and tourism being their largest sectors.
A National Cities Performance Framework is available for Mackay, which provides information about housing, infrastructure, and liveability.