Unique Events for the Free Spirited

From rodeos and wetland weekends to cane farm-fire dinners and distillery classes, the Mackay Isaac region’s calendar is full of events that surprise, delight, and immerse visitors in local life.

Our unique events are perfect for travellers who want more than the usual tourist things. They are about connecting with the land, culture, and community in unexpected ways.

These aren’t your run of the mill events. These are events for the Free Spirited and those who want a story (and Insta worthy post) to share with friends who will comment ‘you did what?!’

Read on for some of our favourite unique events across the Mackay Isaac region.

Nebo Rodeo & Street Party

This ain't our first RODEO 


Kick off the weekend with a street party stocked to the brim with live music, food trucks, and camping under the stars. Then wake up to  the adrenaline at Nebo’s high-energy rodeo. It’s a true small-town celebration with big personality. This local event attracts over 5,000 people for the one-day event. The street party is the night before the rodeo and they work hand in hand to create an unforgettable weekend in the town of Nebo.

A message from the organisers “By attending the Nebo Rodeo, you’re doing more than enjoying an incredible event you’re supporting our town, local businesses, families, and the future of one of Queensland’s most iconic community celebrations.”

Yeeha! Let’s go!

Date: 16 May 2026

Location: Nebo Showgrounds, Nebo QLD

Tickets/Info

St Lawrence Wetlands Weekend

Food, art, culture and environment.


Explore the coastal wetlands with bird-watching, local produce, live music, and cultural activities. It’s a peaceful yet engaging way to experience the region’s natural and community treasures.

Date: 3 July 2026

Location: St Lawrence, Isaac Region

Tickets/Info

Cane Farm Burn & Field Dining at Oh Deere Farm Stay

Come for the sweet burn in sugar country.

Few experiences capture the heart of rural Queensland quite like a sugar cane burn at dusk. The air hums with anticipation, the horizon glows amber, and the scent of sweet sugarcane smoke fills the air. Now imagine pairing that breathtaking spectacle with delicious food truck meals under the stars. That’s the magic of the Cane Burn & Field Dining experience at Oh Deere Farm Stay.

Held once a year on the working sugar cane farm in Calen just north of Mackay, this seasonal event is a rare opportunity to witness one of the region’s most iconic agricultural traditions to kick of the region’s harvest season.

Date: June or July 2026 (TBC)

Location: 71 Zamparuttis Road, Calen QLD

Event info TBC

Sarina Sugar Shed Distillery Classes

Just 37 km south of Mackay, in the cane-fields of Sarina, the Sarina Sugar Shed offers an experience that’s anything but ordinary. Dive into the craft behind sugar-cane spirits at Australia’s only fully operational miniature sugar-processing mill and boutique distillery. Learn the journey from field to glass, enjoy tastings, and try your hand at making something memorable.

Date: Monthly events – check Sarina Sugar Shed events calendar for dates

Location: Sarina Sugar Shed, Sarina QLD

Tickets/Info

Food & Scenic Cruises

Imagine a warm evening breeze, the coastline sliding by, and a gourmet dining experience waiting for you on the water. In the Mackay Isaac Region, food-lovers and travellers can combine the two, with a scenic Endless Days Marina or River. Step aboard the 60-foot catamaran, enjoy a grazing platter, top notch canapes and watch the sun set over the harbour or river banks while the residences light up around you. Whether you’re celebrating, catching up with friends, or just treating yourself, these cruises offer a relaxing, delicious way to experience the region.

Date: Most weekends, pending weather and tides.

Location: Mackay Marina & the Pioneer River

Tickets/Info

From high-energy rodeos and scenic coastal cruises to hands-on farm experiences, there’s no shortage of excitement for those seeking a true taste of Queensland life.

Mackay Isaac’s unique events turn a regular trip into a series of unforgettable experiences. Start planning your trip, mark your calendar, and get ready to enjoy these off the beaten track events.

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