Port of Mackay to celebrate 80 years

1939 Mackay Harbour Opening with the Sydney Star

From 10am to 3pm Old Mulherin Park will come alive with good old-fashioned fun for the whole family.

Chief Executive Officer Nicolas Fertin said, to mark the milestone, NQBP is hosting the Port of Mackay’s 80^th Anniversary Maritime Carnival.

“The day will recreate the initial opening of the port in 1939 with live entertainment and maritime-themed, free, family friendly activities,” Mr Fertin said

The community can step back in time and rock, bop and shake to The Doo Wop Dolls, as they perform hits from the 40s, 50s and 60s.

Crowd favourites such as free face-painting, children’s rides, sack races, fairy floss and popcorn will be on offer.

Mr Fertin said community members are also invited to learn more about the Port of Mackay’s history by booking on a free guided bus tour.

“We enjoy working with our port community and this anniversary is a great way to bring the region together,” Mr Fertin said.

Mr Fertin said the Mackay Harbour was officially opened on 26 August 1939 by the Honourable W.Forgan Smith, the then Premier of Queensland and Member for Mackay.

“The opening of the port marked a new era for Mackay,” Mr Fertin said.

“The port has since grown into an essential multi-commodity port and hosts one of the world’s largest bulk sugar terminals.”

“Ports such as Mackay play an integral part to Queensland’s prosperity.”

“The Port of Mackay supports 3,100 trade jobs with goods to the value of $1.5 billion passing through the port each year.”

“Mark your calendars, more details will be announced soon,” he said.