Mackay Memories and Musings: Insights from a Gardian Veteran
Join us as we delve into the rich experiences and local knowledge of Mick, a long-standing member of the Gardian team. His perspective offers a unique blend of nostalgia and insight into the Mackay lifestyle.
Name: Mick McLeod
Gardian Position/Department: Real Estate
Mackay Local: Yes
What is your favourite local beach in Mackay and why?
Clairview. Family memories.
🏖️ Beach nostalgia: While technically not in Mackay, Clairview is a hidden gem about 125km south of Mackay. Known for its calm waters and great fishing, it's a favorite spot for many Mackay locals looking for a peaceful getaway. The fact that it holds special family memories for Mick speaks to its charm and the importance of these coastal retreats in the lives of Mackay residents.
How do you cope with tropical heat and humidity?
Used to bowl 15 overs into the wind uphill at Harrup Park. I coped by drinking 20 pots of XXXX afterwards.
🍺 Local sports and spirits: Mick's response humorously highlights the resilience of Mackay locals in dealing with the tropical climate. Harrup Park is a significant sporting venue in Mackay, hosting cricket, AFL, and other sports. The mention of XXXX beer, a Queensland favorite, adds a quintessentially Australian touch to coping with the heat.
What is your most memorable experience with the sugar cane industry?
Not many. I was raised on a Sugar Cane farm, but was definitely no farmer.
🍭 Sugar cane heritage: Despite not considering himself a farmer, Mick's upbringing on a sugar cane farm reflects the deep roots of the sugar industry in Mackay's history and economy. Known as the sugar capital of Australia, Mackay's landscape and culture have been shaped by sugar cane farming for generations.
What is the influence of living near the Great Barrier Reef?
Tourism
🐠 Reef economics: Mick's succinct answer highlights a key aspect of living near the Great Barrier Reef - its significant impact on local tourism. The reef attracts visitors from around the world, boosting Mackay's economy and providing numerous job opportunities in tourism and related industries.
Please share ideas about spotting platypuses in the Pioneer Valley.
Back in my youth I had great eye sight, and could see them from the bar in the Chalet.
👀 Platypus viewing with a twist: Mick's humorous response refers to the Eungella Chalet, a historic lodge in Eungella National Park, known as one of the best places in the world to spot platypuses. While we can't recommend spotting wildlife from the bar, the Broken River viewing platform in Eungella is indeed an excellent spot for platypus watching, especially at dawn and dusk.
How do you prepare for cyclone season?
My wife goes shopping.
🌀 Cyclone prep, Mackay style: While Mick's response is lighthearted, cyclone preparation is a serious matter in Mackay. Typically, residents stock up on non-perishable foods, water, batteries, and other essentials. They also secure loose items around their properties and stay informed about weather updates. Mick's answer humorously suggests that his wife takes charge of these preparations.
What is your favourite annual event or festival in Mackay and why?
Mackay Cup. Had many great days with my wife at the Woollams tent.
🏇 Racing tradition: The Mackay Cup is a major event in the local horse racing calendar. Held at Ooralea Racecourse, it's not just about the races but also a social occasion where locals dress up and enjoy a day out. The Woollams tent Mick mentions likely refers to a corporate or social marquee at the event, highlighting the community and networking aspects of the Cup.
What is the impact of the mining industry in your life?
Two of my son in laws work there 7 on 7 off.
⛏️ Mining's family impact: Mick's response reflects the common 'fly-in, fly-out' (FIFO) or 'drive-in, drive-out' (DIDO) work arrangements in the mining industry. This 7 days on, 7 days off schedule is typical and can significantly impact family life. It brings good income but also challenges in terms of work-life balance and family time.
How has growing up in Mackay shaped your perspective?
My early years were spent at Flaggy Rock. For me it was all about sport, and the Community Leaders who worked hard to enable us to play all sports.
🏉 Community spirit in action: Flaggy Rock is a small community south of Mackay. Mick's experience highlights the importance of sports in rural Australian communities and the dedication of community leaders in fostering these activities. This background likely contributed to a strong sense of community and appreciation for local engagement.
What is your favourite outdoor activity that is unique in Mackay?
Sitting on the patio having a Great Northern at our Family's Clairview house 20 metres from the beach. Not unique but special.
🍻 Coastal relaxation: While not unique to Mackay, this activity encapsulates the laid-back coastal lifestyle that many associate with the region. The mention of Great Northern, a popular Queensland beer, adds local flavor. The proximity to the beach highlights the appeal of coastal living in the Mackay region.
What does changing economy and job opportunities look like to you?
Retirement.
👴 Personal economic outlook: Mick's succinct answer suggests he's at a stage in life where he's looking towards retirement rather than new job opportunities. This perspective is valuable, reminding us that Mackay's changing economy affects different generations in various ways, including considerations for retirement planning and lifestyle.
What do you think is the best hidden gem in Mackay?
Brampton Island.
🏝️ Island paradise: Brampton Island, located about 32km northeast of Mackay, is part of the Cumberland Islands group. Once home to a popular resort, it's currently closed to the public. Mick's choice highlights the potential for tourism and the natural beauty of the islands off Mackay's coast, suggesting opportunities for future development and eco-tourism.
What is your favourite local legend or historical story in Mackay?
George Moore (Jockey) Born and raised in Mackay and went on to become arguably the greatest Jockey ever.
🏇 Local hero spotlight: George Moore, born in Mackay in 1923, was indeed one of the greatest jockeys in Australian horse racing history. He won 119 Group One races and was inducted into the Australian Racing Hall of Fame. His story is a point of pride for Mackay, showing how the city has produced world-class talent.
What is the influence of multicultural aspect of Mackay to you?
I'm part Irish, Scottish and Chinese.
🌏 Multicultural heritage: Mick's diverse heritage reflects the multicultural nature of Mackay's population. The city has a rich history of immigration, including significant South Sea Islander, European, and Asian communities. This diversity has contributed to Mackay's cultural tapestry, influencing its cuisine, festivals, and community dynamics.
What is your go-to method for staying cool during the hottest months?
Jackie Howe singlet, footy shorts, and small towel around my neck. Beer in hand.
🍺 Quintessential Aussie cooling: Mick's method is a classic Australian approach to beating the heat. The Jackie Howe singlet, named after a famous shearer, is an iconic piece of Australian workwear. Combined with footy shorts and a cold beer, this outfit represents a very Australian, no-fuss approach to dealing with hot weather.
What is your favourite local sporting team or event?
Mackay Cutters.
🏉 Local league pride: The Mackay Cutters are the local rugby league team playing in the Queensland Cup competition. Their mention highlights the importance of rugby league in Mackay's sporting culture. The team serves as a pathway for local players to potentially reach the National Rugby League (NRL) and represents Mackay on a state level.
What changes in Mackay do you notice?
More cars on the roads.
🚗 Growth indicators: The increase in traffic Mick has noticed is a common sign of urban growth. It could indicate population growth, increased economic activity, or changes in city planning. This observation provides insight into Mackay's development over the years, reflecting its evolution from a small sugar town to a significant regional center.
What future hopes do we have in Mackay?
Huge potential. The re opening of islands and resorts such as Brampton Island, Lindemann Island and Laguna Quays for example.
🏖️ Tourism renaissance hopes: Mick's hopes for Mackay's future focus on revitalizing its tourism industry, particularly through the reopening of island resorts. This vision aligns with efforts to diversify Mackay's economy beyond mining and agriculture. The reopening of these resorts could significantly boost local tourism, creating jobs and bringing more visitors to experience the natural beauty of the Mackay region.
The Mackay Secret Insider Local Secrets by Mick McLeod
Would you like to learn more about Mick McLeod? Read his
formal Gardian bio.
