Mackay Isaac Tourism welcomes funding announcement for successful local operator

Mackay Isaac Tourism (MIT) has welcomed the Queensland Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI)’s announcement of successful recipients in the 2026 Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund (RTIF), celebrating Wake House Australia as the Mackay Isaac region’s successful applicant.

Mackay Isaac Tourism CEO Jeff Stewart-Harris said MIT supported a number of strong applications in the first round of funding, which will see over $7.6 million invested into strengthening regional tourism offerings across Queensland.

“We congratulate Wake House Australia on this outstanding achievement,” Mr Stewart-Harris said.

“While we had several submissions from across our region, it’s fantastic to see regional Queensland benefit from this fund, and even more so to see our own region recognised.

“The Queensland Government’s four-year commitment to the Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund provides confidence for our industry.

“We’re excited to see how this strengthens opportunities for more Mackay Isaac projects in future rounds.”

Wake House Australia Managing Director Amanda Pelagalli said the support will accelerate long-planned enhancements to the wake park facility in Andergrove Lakes.

“This funding allows us to progress upgrades that will significantly elevate the Wake House experience for both locals and international visitors alike,” Mrs Pelagalli said.

“We’re incredibly proud to represent the Mackay Isaac region and grateful for the government’s investment in regional tourism growth as part of the Destination 2045 plan.”

The RTIF supports projects such as new attractions, upgrades to visitor facilities, eco-lodges, glamping, agritourism and nature-based experiences, all aimed at attracting more visitors, increasing length of stay, and boosting regional spending.

Learn more about the program and statewide successful applicants here:
https://www.detsi.qld.gov.au/tourism/funding-grants/regional-tourism-infrastructure-fund

[ENDS]

Mackay Isaac Tourism welcomes funding announcement for successful local operator

Mackay Isaac Tourism (MIT) has welcomed the Queensland Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI)’s announcement of successful recipients in the 2026 Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund (RTIF), celebrating Wake House Australia as the Mackay Isaac region’s successful applicant.

Mackay Isaac Tourism CEO Jeff Stewart-Harris said MIT supported a number of strong applications in the first round of funding, which will see over $7.6 million invested into strengthening regional tourism offerings across Queensland.

“We congratulate Wake House Australia on this outstanding achievement,” Mr Stewart-Harris said.

“While we had several submissions from across our region, it’s fantastic to see regional Queensland benefit from this fund, and even more so to see our own region recognised.

“The Queensland Government’s four-year commitment to the Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund provides confidence for our industry.

“We’re excited to see how this strengthens opportunities for more Mackay Isaac projects in future rounds.”

Wake House Australia Managing Director Amanda Pelagalli said the support will accelerate long-planned enhancements to the wake park facility in Andergrove Lakes.

“This funding allows us to progress upgrades that will significantly elevate the Wake House experience for both locals and international visitors alike,” Mrs Pelagalli said.

“We’re incredibly proud to represent the Mackay Isaac region and grateful for the government’s investment in regional tourism growth as part of the Destination 2045 plan.”

The RTIF supports projects such as new attractions, upgrades to visitor facilities, eco-lodges, glamping, agritourism and nature-based experiences, all aimed at attracting more visitors, increasing length of stay, and boosting regional spending.

Learn more about the program and statewide successful applicants here:
https://www.detsi.qld.gov.au/tourism/funding-grants/regional-tourism-infrastructure-fund

[ENDS]

Mackay Isaac Boat Ramps

Featuring 33 public boat ramps dotted across the region, this interactive map helps you find ideal launch points for your next fishing or boating adventure, whether you’re heading offshore for reef species, chasing mangrove jacks in quiet creeks, or exploring stocked impoundments inland.

With year-round fishing and easy access to abundant waterways that anglers of all levels love, Mackay Isaac is where lifelong fishing stories begin.

2025 Award Recipients

The Mackay Isaac region sparkled with pride on Friday 31st October 2025 as the 2025 Mackay Isaac Tourism Awards Gala Dinner unfolded in spectacular fashion at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre.

Held under a glamorous masquerade theme, the evening brought together operators, volunteers, stakeholders and industry leaders to recognise the passion and pride of the local operators and volunteers who support our visitor economy.

2025 Mackay Isaac Tourism Award Recipients include:

Festivals and Events

• St Lawrence Wetlands Weekend, Isaac Regional Council – Gold
• Wombat Festival, Clermont Artslink – Silver

Ecotourism

• Mt Jukes Eco Retreat – Gold
• Nautical By Nature Mackay – Silver

Tourism Retail, Hire and Services

• Mt Pleasant Centre – Gold

Business Event Venues

• Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre – Gold

Tour & Transport Operators

• Oh Deere Farm Stay – Gold
• Mackay Adventure Tours and Transfers – Silver
• Mingle Events Co. – Bronze
• Bush Heli-Service – Highly Commended
• Off Camber Mountain Biking - Highly Commended

Adventure Tourism

• Nautical By Nature – Gold
• Wake House Australia – Silver

Tourism Restaurants and Catering Services

• Shamrock Hotel Mackay – Gold

Unique Accommodation

• Oh Deere Farm Stay - Gold
• Mackay Adventure Lodge – Silver

Self-Contained Accommodation

• Comfort Resort Blue Pacific – Gold

4 or 4.5 Star Accommodation

• Quest Mackay on Gordon – Gold
• Rydges Mackay Suites – Silver

New Tourism Business

• Nautical By Nature Mackay – Gold

Outstanding Contribution by a Volunteer or Volunteer Group

• Friends of the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre - Gold

People’s Choice

• Accommodation: Oh Deere Farm Stay
• Experience or Service: Nautical By Nature