What’s happening?
Mackay City Heart Collective, inspired by the area’s historic Chinatown, is activating River Street with a series of Chinese Lunar New Year events. Supported by a $12,200 Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) grant, the project will bring an “Asian Spring” atmosphere to Mackay’s city centre, with celebrations running from January 29 to February 12, 2025.
Why it Matters?
This project celebrates Mackay’s cultural diversity and honours the city’s early Chinese community, which was integral to its development from 1880 to 1930.
By merging the traditional Chinese New Year, Lantern Festival, and Spring Festival, this initiative promotes multicultural understanding and enhances Mackay’s vibrant cultural identity.
Local Impact
The event series, complete with art installations and lanterns, will transform the heart of Mackay, making the city centre a destination for residents and tourists.
Mayor Greg Williamson highlighted the project’s community significance, stating, “Mackay City Heart Collective is well-known for producing high quality activations in our city, the new BeeMindful mural in Seventh Lane being one of their most recent.”
This initiative not only revitalises the city but brings an economic boost as visitors are drawn to the festival.
By the Numbers:
- $12,200: Funding awarded to the Mackay City Heart Collective to bring Chinese cultural celebrations into the city heart.
- 29 January – 12 February 2025: Festival dates during which River Street will be transformed with Asian-inspired decor and activities.
- $7756: Grant awarded to artist Lalune Croker for Asian lantern installations across the Whitsunday Hotel and Ford petrol station.
Zoom In
Beyond the cultural celebrations, this RADF grant round has supported several other local creative initiatives.
Tiffany Grace received $9900 to record new songs, Grace McDonald secured $8540 for advanced glass printing workshops, and Michelle Camilleri will document the region’s culinary diversity with $5940 for a video series.
Zoom Out
The Regional Arts Development Fund, a collaboration between Arts Queensland and Mackay Regional Council, continues to empower local artists and organisations, strengthening cultural and creative communities across Queensland.
With projects like these, RADF plays a key role in preserving and evolving regional heritage and artistry.
What to Look for Next?
The next RADF funding round is now open, closing on February 5, 2025.
Artists and organisations are encouraged to apply to bring more culturally enriching projects to Mackay.
For assistance, contact the Arts Development Officer at 1300 MACKAY (622 529) or via email at creative@mackay.qld.gov.au.
For more information, visit HERE.
