What’s happening?
Mackay will host its first-ever Test match when Australia takes on Bangladesh at Great Barrier Reef Arena later this year.
Cricket Australia confirmed the venue as part of the 2026 NRMA Insurance Men’s Test Series.
It marks the first time a Test match will be played in the city of Mackay.
Great Barrier Reef Arena becomes the fourth Queensland venue to stage Test cricket, joining the Brisbane Exhibition Ground, the Gabba and Cazalys in Cairns.
The series will also include a Test in Darwin at Marrara Stadium.
Why it matters?
This is a major milestone for regional Queensland cricket.
Queensland Cricket CEO Terry Svenson said the result reflects years of effort.
“The announcement of Test cricket returning to regional Queensland represents the culmination of many years of hard work from numerous individuals across several organisations,” he said.
He congratulated Terry Doolan and the Mackay Cricket Association, Adrian Young and the Harrup Park Country Club, and acknowledged former QC Director Barry Jansen for his long standing advocacy.
Mayor Greg Williamson said the region had already shown it could deliver world class fixtures.
“The Australia versus South Africa games were tremendous. Both games were sell-outs and they showed us that we can attract strong crowds to our region for these world-class matches,” he said.
By the numbers:
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From 22 to 26 August 2026, Mackay will host the second Test of the two match series, with play beginning at 10am local time each day.
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From 13 to 17 August 2026, Darwin’s Marrara Stadium will stage the first Test, marking its first since 2004.
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In 2025, Great Barrier Reef Arena drew crowds in excess of 5000 for two one day internationals, both of which were sell-outs.
Zoom in
Great Barrier Reef Arena has grown into a key northern venue over the past decade.
The stadium has hosted men’s and women’s international matches over the past two northern winters.
It staged four-day Australia A matches against New Zealand in 2023 and India in 2024.
It has also delivered the Weber Women’s Big Bash League fixtures, Sheffield Shield matches, Domestic One Day games and the National Indigenous Cricket Championships.
Adrian Young, CEO of Great Barrier Reef Arena, said the Test was a defining moment.
“Hosting our first Test match is recognition that Mackay has earned its place on the international stage,” he said.
“It also reflects the confidence that Cricket Australia has in our venue, our team and our community.”
Zoom out
Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg said northern Australia offers flexibility in a packed global schedule.
“It is no secret the international calendar is now crowded, and we’re fortunate to have world-class facilities available in August, ensuring we have another window for Test cricket outside summer,” he said.
The series will be broadcast on Kayo Sports, Foxtel, Seven and 7plus.
Local impact
Mackay’s elevation to Test status is expected to boost visitation during the northern winter.
It will bring national attention to the region and highlight the Arena’s facilities.
Mayor Williamson said the council was proud to support the event through the Invest Mackay Events and Conference Attraction Program.
Queensland Cricket also thanked Mackay Regional Council, the Queensland Government and the Federal Government for their backing of major infrastructure and grassroots cricket.
What to look for next?
Pre-sale tickets for CricketPlus members open on Friday, June 5, 2026.
General public tickets go on sale on Monday, June 15, 2026.
Strong demand is likely following recent sell-out internationals in Mackay.
