THE Port of Mackay is turning 80 and to celebrate North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation has invited the community to a party on Sunday 25 August at Old Mulherin Park.
CEO Nicolas Fertin said the 80th Anniversary Maritime Carnival would recreate the initial opening of the port in 1939 with live entertainment and maritime-themed, free, family friendly activities.
The Port of Mackay (Mackay Outer Harbour) was officially opened on Saturday, 26 August, 1939 by the Rt. Hon. W. Forgan Smith, M.L.A, L.L.D., Premier of Queensland.
In his foreword he said, “The opening of the Outer Harbour at Mackay marks the new beginning of a new era for the city and the fertile area of which it is the centre”.
Mr Fertin said community members are also invited to learn more about the port’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.
“The opening of the port marked a new era for Mackay,” he 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 states that it supports 3100 trade jobs with goods to the value of $1.5bn passing through the port each year.
