Standing at the mouth of the Pioneer River, Mackay City is known for its blue water estuaries and deep water artificial port, with one of the world's largest bulk-handling installations serving as the hub of Australia's sugar industry.
In 1860, an Irishman by the name of John McCrossin selected a 20-year-old Scotsman, John Mackay, to lead an expedition to seek pastoral opportunities. They eventually came across the coastal ranges, which are now known as the Pioneer Valley.
Established in 1862 and named after Captain John Mackay, the city attained municipal status in 1869, and later city status in 1918.
There was a construction boom in the early 20th Century due to a series of unrelated events which combined to transform the appearance of the city.
Factors included natural disaster events, such as fires in 1915 and 1916, which destroyed many shops in Victoria Street, as well as a devastating cyclone in 1918 which destroyed 80 per cent of the buildings in the city.
A policy of the Council at the time was to replace all timber commercial premises with masonry structures for safety reasons.
This regulation combined with a population explosion and retained economic growth from steadied sugar prices and co-operatively owned sugar mills, meant that Mackay’s streets began to be decorated with beautiful Art Deco style buildings, many of which still exist today.
The city has been historically recognised as a sugar research institute since 1953. Mackay has been known to contribute to various industries including dairy, lumber, alcohol production, and tropical fruit cultivation. More recently, the hinterland coal mining developments and the tourist industry have added to Mackay's economic structure.
Modern-day Mackay offers contemporary living, blending the tranquillity of suburban solitude and natural beauty. The city provides ever-growing career prospects, alongside the convenience of amenities, education, and sports facilities.
The old Commonwealth Bank in Victoria Street in 1883 (colourised) vs. today
Photo credit: Have you seen the Old Mackay (Facebook page)
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