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Mackay is located half way between Brisbane and Cairns and is often referred to as the 'Heart of Queensland'.
The Mackay Region has encountered a population boom over the past 12 - 18 months primarily due to the growth of the Coal Mines west of Mackay. In fact, the Mackay Regions growth is one of the strongest in the whole of Queensland.
Mackay has a strong industrial estate providing engineering support services mining and agricultural sectors within the region. In fact, 27% of Queensland's engineering services are based in Mackay. The engineering and mining sector contribute considerably to the economic vibrance of the region.
And it is the biggest single coal mining area in Australia.
The Mackay region covers an area of approximately 90,000 km2, which is about 5.2 per cent of the total area of Queensland. There are nine local authorities - Peak Downs Shire, Broadsound Shire, Belyando Shire, Bowen Shire, Mirani Shire, Nebo Shire, Mackay City, Sarina Shire, administer the area and Whitsunday Shire.
The region encompasses Australia’s largest continuous stretch of rainforest, spectacular National Parks, breathtaking mountains and gorges, historic townships, miles of golden beaches, more than 70 tropical islands and of course the enchanting world of the Great Barrier Reef.
Throughout the area the landscape is dotted with cane fields, reflecting the Central Region’s place as Australia’s largest sugar producer.
Mackay City as of June 2006 recorded a total of 84, 856 permanent residents. This is an increase of 2.8% from the previous year. Mackay’s population is younger than the State’s average and some of the outer lying mining towns rank among the State’s wealthiest.
Mackay has also established three 'Sister City' ties with:
Kailua Kona, Hawaii. Established on 4 January, 1966.
Matsuura, Japan. Established on 22 July, 1989.
Honiara, Solomon Islands. Established on 5 July, 1995.
These Sister Cities are developed to promote friendship and goodwill, cultural understanding and to contribute to world peace and prosperity.
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