From 5 - 13 July 2024, The Reef Trail invites you on a self-drive journey along the picturesque coastline stretching from Mackay to Airlie Beach. The 8-day itinerary will feature a variety of unique music experiences throughout, blending world-class talent, rich First Nations culture and local hospitality amidst idyllic landscapes.
At the heart of the excitement is the eagerly awaited return of the coastal concert series Between the Tides. In its second edition, this one-of-a-kind event will present Christine Anu on Sat 6 July and Josh Pyke on Sun 7 July, with Tia Gostelow gracing both nights.
The Trail kicks off with our official launch party, Embark, on Fri 5 July at Red Dog Brewery in Mackay. The following night on Sat 6 July, indie icons Great Gable and Kitschen Boy will headline an all-ages event in Mackay, presented in collaboration with The Push.
The final stop of The Reef Trail is The Reef Sundowner on the serene shores of Lake Proserpine. Join us for a last hurrah: an afternoon of acoustic folk music and delectable local food amidst a breathtaking lakeside location.
In between each musical highlight, dive into cultural experiences and soak up the beauty of the region. With glistening turquoise waters, heavenly white sand beaches and the iconic Great Barrier Reef framing your sojourn, prepare to fulfil your bucket list dreams while discovering new and unexpected delights along the way.
Friday, 5 July
Hop aboard The Reef Trail at our FREE launch event, Embark!
Join us on Fri 5 July at Red Dog Brewery in Mackay as we come together for a free, all-ages launch party with live music from singer-songerwriter Will Blume. This is a great opportunity to meet and mingle with your fellow Reef Trail-Goers before we set sail on The Reef Trail.
EXPLORE EMBARK
Saturday, 6 July
Catchy indie anthems and dynamic synth-packed tunes are on the menu as Great Gable and Kitschen Boy headline an All-Ages event at Arcadia Bar from 1pm - 5pm.
As the afternoon winds down, we’ll head to the serene Yuwibara Country in Cape Hillsborough for the first instalment of Between the Tides.
The evening begins in the pre-event Gathering Space amidst the parklands featuring live music by Lloyd Saunders, interactive workshops and an array of locally crafted food, beverages, arts, and crafts to enjoy. At dusk, the Yuwibara hosts will lead visitors from the parklands onto the delicate sands where the concert will unfold.
Multi-award-winning recording artist Christine Anu will deliver an unmissable performance of her biggest hits, including the ARIA Song of the Year My Island Home, on the beautiful shores of Cape Hillsborough. The evening will kick off with a captivating set by the talented Tia Gostelow, ensuring an unforgettable night of music.
EXPLORE BETWEEN THE TIDES
Sunday, 7 July
Start your day at the Seaforth Mega Markets from 8.30am to 12pm along Palm Avenue in Seaforth. With over 80 stallholders, you'll find an amazing selection of art, crafts, food stalls, fresh produce, and much more. Plus, enjoy a special performance from rising star Tiffany Grace, celebrating the Trails being in the region!
Then, visit the friendliest bowls club on the peninsula, the Seaforth Bowls Club, for a free family fun day that everyone will enjoy.
As the day winds down, join us on Yuwi Country in Cape Hillsborough for the second night of Between the Tides. Experience the magic of multi-award-winning artist Josh Pyke, with Tia Gostelow in support. Together, we’ll create unforgettable memories, leaving nothing but our footprints behind.
With no planned events over the next few days, you have the perfect opportunity to blaze your own trail, and there's no better region for such an adventure!
With so much to offer, you can immerse yourself in Mackay's natural beauty. Unwind at one of the many beaches, surround yourself with lush rainforests or discover premier fishing destinations.
For coastal adventures, head North to Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays region. The sparkling waters of the Coral Sea offer countless activities, from sailing and snorkeling to spending a night on the reef.
To start planning your trip, visit the Tourism and Events Queensland webpage. Discover more here.
Saturday, 13 July
Join us at the final stop off The Reef Trail, The Reef Sundowner, as we come together for a FREE last hurrah!
Extending our journey through paradise to the serene shores of Lake Proserpine, The Reef Sundowner promises a BYO afternoon of acoustic folk music and delectable local food amidst a breathtaking lakeside location.
Trail-Goe
rs and visitors are invited to set up camp and spend the night at the nearby Lake Proserpine campground.
EXPLORE THE REEF SUNDOWNER
Select the events you'd like to attend along the trail and secure your tickets for each individual event.
Camping under the stars, indulging in luxury retreats or embarking on a caravan adventure! You can book the accommodation that suits you around the events and attractions you've planned.
With tickets and accomodation secured, it's time to start charting your ultimate coastal getaway! Familiarise yourself with the region and start planning additional sites and activities that pique your interest.
We'll see you in Mackay on Friday 5 July, or wherever you decide to join us along this coastal getaway!
Reel in a great deal with a Trail Traveller Pass! Each pass unlocks access to a curated collection of our premier Trail events at an unbeatable 20% discount.
Discover the perfect pass for your journey along The Reef Trail, with three distinct options tailored to suit your preferences.
The Reef Trail
July 5
Mackay QLD
July 6
July 6 - 7
On Yuwi Country in Cape Hillsborough
July 13
Lake Proserpine QLD
As a not-for-profit organisation, every dollar we earn goes directly back into the heart of communities, fostering local talent development and creating a positive impact that ripples across the region.
Immerse yourself in the true essence of coastal paradise! We're dedicated to championing local suppliers and vendors at every turn along our trails, ensuring an authentic and enriching experience for all.
Through initiatives such as MobTix, Local Legends, accessible venues and facilities, we pride ourselves on creating events that ensure everyone can enjoy the vibrant spirit of Queensland.
QMF respectfully acknowledges the Yuwi, Ngaro and Gia Peoples as the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the land, waters and skies where the Reef Trail unfolds. We extend our respects for their enduring connection to the remarkable terrain, where creative works take place, performances resonate, and celebrations come to life. We pay our respects to Elders past and present, and to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders of all communities who also work and live on this land. We recognise the importance of First Nations leadership and collaboration, and QMF commits to walking together on a journey of shared learning and culture.
Join the Reef Trail for the latest in events, news, promotions and competitions. See you on the trail!
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