Pop-up parklet trial

Due to a successful trial in the Bluewater Quay, council has extended the trial activation of the pop-up parklet to other City Centre and Riverfront locations.

A trial pop-up parklet was installed at Bluewater Quay from April 10 to June 30, 2026, to provide extra shade, greenery and a relaxing space along the riverfront.

The pop-up parklet directly responded to community feedback from engagement on the Mackay Waterfront Place Strategy, where residents told us they wanted more shade, more greenery and more reasons to spend time at Bluewater Quay.

During the trial, the community told us the parklet had improved their experience of the Bluewater Quay and that they'd like to see it installed in other locations.

The trial is continuing in the City Centre and Riverfront, with the parklet currently installed in areas along Wood Street

What is a parklet?

A parklet is a small, temporary public space designed to make streets and public spaces more inviting.

The parklet has been designed and supplied by Future Village, a specialist placemaking company, using high‑quality temporary furniture and greenery. It includes:

• Shaded outdoor seating.
• Wheelchair accessible picnic table.
• Greenery in planter boxes.
• Stencilled play activities.
• Decorative lighting will also be installed during the trial.

Why are we trialling the parklet?

The trial will allow council to see how the space is used and how the community responds before considering longer‑term options.

If the trial is successful, there is potential for the parklet to be reused in other places to help activate selected locations in the City Centre.

Have your say!

We want to hear about your experience with the pop-up parklet.

Share your photos or videos below and complete the quick, 2-minute online survey. Hard-copy surveys are available on request by emailing engagement@mackay.qld.gov.au or calling 1300 MACKAY (622 529).

Feedback shared will help to inform future temporary and permanent activations in the Mackay City and Waterfront areas.

Consultation closes on September 30, 2026, at 11.59PM.