Local Mackay Advice with Mackay Leader/Identity/Director Denise Phillips
Embark on a journey through Mackay's local wonders as we explore the city through the eyes of Denise, a valued member of the Gardian team. From nostalgic beach memories to community events, Denise's insights offer a unique glimpse into the lifestyle and charm that make Mackay a special place to call home.
Name: Denise Phillips Gardian Position/Department: Gardian Director Mackay Local: Yes
Grasstree Beach: A Treasure Trove of Memories
Gardians Own Denise Phillips
Denise shares her favorite local spots and insights. Experience Mackay through a true local's eyes! #MackaySecrets #LocalInsider
Mackay Local Advice
What is your favourite local beach in Mackay and why?
Grasstree Beach, our extended Young family had a house down there - we'd rotate with the cousins and visit each holiday, so Easter, School Holidays and Christmas's were spent fishing, crabbing, building sandcastles, driving boats, tractors, having bonfires and generally doing life. Fantastic memories - the house was sold earlier this year :(
🏖️ Beach Nostalgia:Denise's fondness for Grasstree Beach is deeply rooted in family traditions and cherished memories. This personal connection highlights how Mackay's coastal areas are not just geographical features but spaces where community bonds are strengthened and lifelong memories are created.
How do you cope with tropical heat and humidity?
Air conditioned house, to air conditioned car, to air conditioned Office .... and back :) swimming and eating lots of Zooper Doopers
🌡️ Cool Comfort:Denise's approach to Mackay's tropical climate combines modern convenience with classic Australian treats. The reliance on air conditioning reflects the reality of living in a hot, humid environment, while the mention of Zooper Doopers adds a touch of nostalgia familiar to many Australians.
What is your most memorable experience with the sugar cane industry?
Going to a cane "burn" at my sister-in-law's family farm - near Victoria Plains. Awesome but scary too especially when all the animals flee the flames! Having fun with the black cane trash smudged all over our faces at Walkerston after all the cane fires.
🍭 Sweet Memories:Denise's vivid recollection of cane burning paints a picture of Mackay's agricultural heritage. These controlled burns, once a common sight, were not just part of the sugar production process but also a spectacle that brought communities together. The playful aftermath with cane trash shows how deeply intertwined the sugar industry was with local life and childhood experiences.
What is the influence of living near the Great Barrier Reef?
We take it for granted being so close to paradise - getting out on the water in a boat, seeing turtles and dolphins and whales. It's food for the soul!
🐠 Reef Life:Denise's comment beautifully captures the unique privilege of living near the Great Barrier Reef. The easy access to marine wonders like turtles, dolphins, and whales provides residents with extraordinary experiences that many can only dream of. This proximity to nature not only enhances quality of life but also fosters a deep connection to the marine environment.
Please share ideas about spotting platypuses in the Pioneer Valley.
Broken River, Eungella (Pioneer Valley) is the best spot. Under the bridge near the main road - you need to be as quiet as possible as they are very shy, but it is such a treat to find them.
🦆 Wildlife Watch:Denise's tip for platypus spotting at Broken River in Eungella National Park is a valuable insider's advice. This location is indeed renowned as one of the best places in Australia to see platypuses in the wild. The emphasis on being quiet highlights the importance of respectful wildlife watching practices.
How do you prepare for cyclone season?
Clear the yard of any debris that could blow away, tie down anything else, stock up on tinned food, battery operated radio, spare batteries, torches - fuel for the generator if you have one! and fill the bath with water.
🌀 Cyclone Readiness:Denise's comprehensive approach to cyclone preparation reflects the experience of long-time Mackay residents. Her checklist covers essential aspects of safety and self-sufficiency, demonstrating the community's resilience and adaptability in the face of tropical weather events.
What is your favourite annual event or festival in Mackay and why?
Mackay Festival of Arts - Always the same time in July, so many cool cultural events, both free and paid - wish it happened more often on a smaller scale. Perfect time of the year to be out and about in Mackay as the weather is perfect!
🎭 Cultural Celebration:The Mackay Festival of Arts stands out as a highlight in the local calendar. Denise's enthusiasm for this event underscores its importance in enriching the community's cultural life. The mix of free and paid events makes it accessible to all, while the timing takes advantage of Mackay's pleasant winter weather.
What is the impact of the mining industry in your life?
We have many clients in the mining industry - finance and insurance in particular with many people moving to Mackay for work, needing housing and business insurance. We are eternally grateful for the industry which has helped us to become so successful and many of our friends as well, who have set up themselves up in business be it engineering, manufacturing or the trades that service the industry. We'd be a very different town without it!
⛏️ Economic Engine:Denise's response highlights the far-reaching impact of the mining industry on Mackay's economy. It's clear that mining not only provides direct employment but also stimulates various sectors, from finance to housing and local businesses. This economic diversification has played a crucial role in shaping modern Mackay.
How has growing up in Mackay shaped your perspective?
There is much to be grateful for, growing up in Mackay. Many people move here "for a short time" and end up loving the lifestyle, having kids and raising them here, making Mackay their home. It has much to offer families - there is something to be said for walking down the street and knowing people. You can always take a trip away and hide if you need!
🌿 Community Connection:Denise's reflection on growing up in Mackay paints a picture of a close-knit community with a magnetic quality. The balance between familiarity and the option for privacy or travel reflects the best of both worlds - the warmth of a small town with the opportunities of a growing city.
What is your favourite outdoor activity that is unique in Mackay?
Going to one of the many beaches in Mackay - still relatively untouched and not too populated.
What does changing economy and job opportunities look like to you?
Again I feel as though the mining industry has had both a positive and negative impact on the Mackay economy - positive in that many businesses are flourishing and therefore people are employed, earning good coin, but .. negative in that not everyone is earning the good coin and so there is a big gap between the higher income earners and the rest. Small businesses are challenged with having to pay more $$ to retain their staff given the attraction of going "over the hill" to get better money is real
💼 Economic Dynamics:Denise provides a nuanced view of Mackay's economic landscape, acknowledging both the benefits and challenges brought by the mining industry. Her observation about income disparities and the pressure on small businesses highlights the complex economic realities faced by the community.
What do you think is the best hidden gem in Mackay?
Woodman's Axe - best coffee in Mackay
☕ Local Favorite:Woodman's Axe café emerges as a beloved local spot, known for its exceptional coffee. Such local businesses often become community hubs, contributing to the city's unique character and providing gathering places for residents.
Directions to Find W
oodman’s Axe:
• From North Mackay: Go south on Evan Street, turn left onto Wood Street. It’s at 123 Wood Street on the right.
Parking is available nearby.
What is your favourite local legend or historical story in Mackay?
Cathy Freeman - olympian and sporting legend. Grew up in Slade Point, went to primary school with my husband Peter @ St Joseph's
🏅 Hometown Hero:Cathy Freeman's connection to Mackay is a source of local pride. Her journey from Slade Point to Olympic glory serves as an inspiration and reminds the community of the potential within its youth. This personal connection through school ties demonstrates how closely knit the Mackay community is.
What is the influence of multicultural aspect of Mackay to you?
We have a rich South Sea Islander history, due to the Sugar Cane industry and many SSI workers coming across for the farm work. Many generations ago and still live here.
🌏 Cultural Tapestry:Denise's acknowledgment of Mackay's South Sea Islander heritage highlights an important aspect of the region's multicultural makeup. This historical connection to the sugar cane industry has left a lasting impact on Mackay's cultural landscape, enriching the community with diverse traditions and perspectives.
What is your go-to method for staying cool during the hottest months?
Air conditioning is a must - a pool definitely helps and cool flowy dressing. Lots of cool drinks, ice blocks and hats!
What is your favourite local sporting team or event?
We have a long and successful Rugby League history - many legends both male and female have come out of Mackay and been successful in the National Rugby League.
🏉 Sporting Heritage:Mackay's rich Rugby League tradition is a point of pride for the community. The impressive list of past and current NRL players from the region demonstrates Mackay's significant contribution to the sport at a national level. This sporting legacy not only provides entertainment but also role models and aspirations for local youth.
What changes in Mackay do you notice?
Being on the radar more with funding? hopefully more so - people moving here during covid and staying on, multicultural growth i.e. from Phillipines, India, South Africa due to mining boom.
🌱 Growing Diversity:Denise's observation of Mackay's changing demographic landscape reflects broader trends in regional Australian cities. The influx of new residents from various backgrounds, partly driven by the mining industry and pandemic-related relocations, is reshaping Mackay's cultural and social fabric.
What future hopes do we have in Mackay?
Actual development of the waterfront and not just talk, investment in Mackay by State and Federal government, expansion of offerings from big brands, i.e. Mecca, etc
🏙️ Urban Aspirations:Denise's hopes for Mackay's future encompass both infrastructure development and economic growth. The desire for waterfront development echoes a common theme in coastal cities worldwide, while the call for more diverse retail offerings reflects an aspiration for Mackay to offer amenities comparable to larger urban centers.
The Mackay Secret Insider Local Secrets by Denise
Grasstree Beach for family gatherings: Unfortunately, there is no specific Wikipedia page for Grasstree Beach. You might find information on local tourism or community websites.
Broken River, Eungella for platypus spotting: Wikipedia
Mackay Festival of Arts in July: There is no specific Wikipedia page for the Mackay Festival of Arts. For detailed information, you might want to check local event pages or the festival’s official website.
Woodman’s Axe for the best coffee: There is no Wikipedia page for Woodman’s Axe. Check local reviews and social media for more details.
