Mackay Boat Ramp Campaign

A quick update for everyone following the Mackay Harbour boating infrastructure discussions.

Council has confirmed discussions are progressing with NQBP regarding a longer-term arrangement for the existing overflow parking area at the harbour.

This is positive news because it helps preserve existing operating conditions beyond 2027.

Many of you will have seen firsthand over the last few good weather weekends that demand at the harbour remains extremely strong. A number of people have shared photos and personal experiences showing congestion, queuing and difficulties retrieving vessels during peak periods.

Those experiences reinforce an important point: retaining the overflow area helps avoid a reduction in current functionality, but it does not materially increase launching capacity or resolve the broader congestion and safety pressures associated with current demand levels.

The campaign continues to support practical improvements to the existing facility where possible, while also advocating for a long-term solution that addresses future demand across the region.

If you are at the harbour during busy periods and observe the car parks full, long retrieval queues, congestion or other operational issues, please feel free to share photos, videos and your experiences on the page. Real-world observations from local boaters help build an accurate picture of how the facility is operating during peak demand periods.

As always, thanks to everyone who continues to contribute constructively to the discussion and share their experiences.

Congestion still exists. Solutions need a plan.

A quick update for everyone following the Mackay Harbour boating infrastructure discussions.

Council has confirmed discussions are progressing with NQBP toward a longer-term arrangement for the existing overflow parking area at the harbour.

That is definitely news because it helps preserve existing operating conditions beyond 2027.

At the same time, it’s important to recognise this doesn’t materially increase launching capacity or resolve the congestion, queuing and safety pressures many boaters experience during peak weather windows. The overflow area has already been supporting the harbour facility for many years.

The broader conversation still remains about long-term launching capacity and future infrastructure planning for the region.

Also, as we continue gathering community feedback, feel free to comment with your own experiences launching and retrieving at Mackay Harbour during those perfect weather days.

Real-world experiences around queuing, congestion, retrieval delays, safety concerns, or changing boating habits all help build a clearer picture of current conditions and future needs across the region.

This isn’t a new issue — it’s been building for decades.

Mackay Harbour was planned based on early 1990s demand, and the same all-tide launching capacity is still in place today.

What’s changed is the number of people using the water. Demand has grown significantly, but capacity hasn’t kept pace.

That’s why congestion now occurs regularly during peak periods.

The key point is this: it’s not that solutions don’t exist — it’s that there is currently no clear, coordinated pathway to deliver additional all-tide launching capacity.

Establishing that pathway is the next step.

If this is something you’ve experienced, feel free to share this post so the issue stays visible.

Photo taken at Mackay Harbour — a typical busy day.
Recent media coverage has highlighted what most local boaties already know — Mackay Harbour is under real pressure, and on good weather days it’s already beyond capacity.

One thing worth clearing up is the idea that “no feasible solutions exist.” That’s not what the official government responses actually say. They point to policy and coordination issues between agencies — not any physical reason a solution can’t be delivered.

In simple terms, options do exist — but there’s currently no clear, agreed pathway to get one built.

That’s an important difference. It means the issue isn’t closed — it’s unresolved.

The region has already been identified as being well short of the ramp capacity it needs, so the focus now has to shift from whether something can be done, to how it actually gets done.

We’re also asking the community to help build a clearer picture of what’s happening on the ground.

If you’ve experienced delays, had to wait extended periods to launch, or chosen not to go due to congestion, feel free to share your experience or photos below.

The weather was great today. How did everyone do?
Work got in the way for me today but I'm sure many of you can share your parking, launching and retrieving stories with us.
Post pictures of line ups and congestion.

To keep pushing forward we need evidence guys.

Great to see continued investment in regional boating infrastructure.

Floating walkways make a real difference in tidal areas — improving safety, accessibility and ease of retrieval, especially in strong currents.

Consistent long-term planning for boating access across regional Queensland is important, particularly in high-ownership regions.

Community consultation is a good step.

Inkerman Creek Boat Ramp upgrade ‼️

Community consultation is now open on the proposed new floating pontoon at Inkerman Creek, aimed at improving safety and accessibility for locals who use the ramp.

Strong tides and currents can make launching and retrieving boats challenging.

That’s why this 50-metre floating pontoon, with a concrete deck, solar lighting and new cleats, was a commitment I pushed for after hearing concerns directly from locals.

This consultation is your chance to help shape the design and make sure it’s fit for purpose, because the people who use the ramp every day know best.

🗓️ Consultation closes midnight 15 March
🔗 For information on how to provide your feedback visit: https://www.msq.qld.gov.au/about-us/news-and-stories/inkerman-creek-floating-walkway-port-alma-road-project

Boat Ownership – Mackay Leads Regional Queensland

As at 30 June 2025, Mackay Regional Council has 14,560 registered vessels.

For comparison:
• Townsville – 12,775
• Bundaberg – 10,372
• Gladstone – 8,250

Mackay has the highest number of registered vessels among comparable regional centres.

Long-term infrastructure planning needs to reflect that reality.

Harbour Update – Overflow Lease Extended

Council has confirmed that discussions with the State have resulted in agreement to extend the lease on the harbour overflow parking beyond 2027.

Late last year, the potential loss of these overflow spaces was flagged. The extension now provides certainty that those parks will remain available.

This is a positive stabilisation measure.

Recent discussions between Council and State representatives have also acknowledged the broader demand and supply imbalance for boating infrastructure across the Mackay region.

While retaining the overflow parking avoids going backwards, it does not increase launching capacity at the region’s primary all-tide sheltered facility.

We appreciate that discussions are continuing and remain focused on achieving a long-term infrastructure outcome that properly supports Mackay’s boating community.

Steady progress matters.

Not every issue moves quickly — especially when it involves shared land, multiple agencies, and long-term planning.

What matters is keeping the conversation grounded, evidence-based, and focused on outcomes that work for the whole region.

That’s the approach we’re taking here.