Mackay Steps Up To The Wicket For International Action

A major sporting announcement just hit home for Mackay cricket fans as Cricket Australia confirmed that Mackay will host its first-ever men’s international one-day matches. The Australian men's team will take on South Africa in two one-day internationals at the Great Barrier Reef Arena (GBRA) on August 22 and 24, 2025.

The announcement follows months of collaboration between Mackay Regional Council, Tourism and Events Queensland (TEQ), and the Great Barrier Reef Arena, who jointly submitted a successful bid for hosting rights in early 2024. Mayor Greg Williamson expressed his excitement about the event, calling it “a dream come true” for local cricket fanatics.

He further highlighted the significance of the match for Mackay’s future in the international sporting arena, with the 2032 Brisbane Olympics and potential cricket events slated to be held primarily at GBRA.

“What a great pleasure to be here today to hear Brett announce that the players and the Australian team will be playing here in Mackay in August,” Mayor Williamson said.

“This is stacking up to put a stake in the ground which actually proves to the cricketing world that the Great Barrier Reef Arena is a fantastic facility.”

This announcement is not just a win for cricket fans but also for the local economy. The influx of thousands of visitors to Mackay for the matches is expected to generate significant economic benefits, particularly for tourism, hospitality, and local businesses.

Cricket Australia’s CEO, Todd Greenberg, emphasised the broader impact, stating that he’s extremely grateful for the support of Queensland and local government partners who have made this possible.

“These matches will create brilliant experiences for residents and travelling cricket fans, and fantastic benefits for local businesses and economies.”

The event will also provide a platform to promote Mackay as a standout destination for international sporting events, particularly in the lead-up to the 2032 Brisbane Olympics.

Noting the region’s charm, Australian cricketer Matt Kuhnemann referred to the region as a “beautiful part of the world,” and praised its passionate local fanbase, particularly highlighting the exceptional quality of the Great Barrier Reef Arena.

“From the get-go, I think Great Barrier is one of – if not the best – cricket grounds in Queensland.

“I think the wicket is second to none, and what they've done with building the stadium and having the club there... it's definitely first-class.”

Adrian Young, CEO of the Great Barrier Reef Arena said this announcement was a big step forward for the region with the facility now ready to become a key player in Australia’s sporting landscape.

The announcement is also part of a broader initiative to bring more international sports to Queensland, with matches scheduled in several cities, including Cairns, Brisbane, and the Gold Coast.

The upcoming one-day internationals will undoubtedly mark a new chapter for Mackay, offering not only an unforgettable sporting experience but also a chance to show the world what this vibrant region has to offer.

2025-26 QUEENSLAND INTERNATONAL CRICKET FIXTURES
Men’s T20I Series v South Africa
August 16: Cazalys Stadium, Cairns
Men’s ODI Series v South Africa
August 19: Cazalys Stadium, Cairns
August 22: Great Barrier Reef Arena, Mackay
August 24: Great Barrier Reef Arena, Mackay
Men’s T20I Series v India
November 6: Carrara Stadium, Gold Coast
November 8: The Gabba, Brisbane
NRMA Insurance Men’s Ashes
4-8 December: Day-Night Test, The Gabba, Brisbane
Women’s ODI Series v India
February 24: Allan Border Field, Brisbane

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Mackay will host its first-ever men’s international one-day matches, with Australia facing South Africa at the Great Barrier Reef Arena in August 2025. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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