Tell us your thoughts on the draft Sarina Field of Dreams Precinct Activation Plan

Council seeks community feedback on Sarina Field of Dreams draft activation plan

Council is inviting the community to have their say on a draft activation plan for the Sarina Field of Dreams precinct.

The precinct, located at the southern entrance to Sarina, is a gateway to the Mackay region.

It is home to a collection of historical buildings and attractions, including the Mackay Region Visitor Information Centre, Sarina Art Gallery, Sarina Arts and Craft Centre and Sarina Sugar Shed.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the precinct was a fantastic place for locals and visitors to relax and enjoy, with its open green spaces, shade trees, barbecue facilities and playground.

“Community input is vital to shaping the future of the Sarina Field of Dreams precinct,” Mayor Williamson said.

“This is a much-loved space that celebrates our history and welcomes visitors to the region. We want to ensure it continues to thrive and reflect the needs and aspirations of our community,” he said.

“Council is exploring opportunities to reinvigorate and activate the precinct to enhance its appeal and functionality.”

The draft activation plan was co-created with key stakeholders and consultants during an Enquiry by Design workshop held in September.

This collaborative process allowed participants to share ideas and test concepts in real time.

The Sarina Museum, which has been closed while a museums collection rationalisation project was undertaken, will re-open in its previous location.

The draft activation plan includes the option of re-opening it and operating it via an incorporated Sarina District Historical Centre.

There is also the option to re-open it as a volunteer-run council museum.

Some other draft activation plan actions include:

- Refreshing branding for the Sarina Field of Dreams precinct.
- Investigating feasibility of improvements to the old convent building (used by the museum).
- Enhancing wayfinding to improve navigation through the precinct.
- Better activation of the arrival building (Visitor Information Centre).
- Encouraging outdoor exhibitions and events.

Council has considered resources and feasibility in developing these actions and now seeks feedback from the broader community.

Consultation is open now and will close at 11.59pm on Sunday, January 18, 2026.

To view the draft activation plan, read the outcomes report and provide feedback visit connectingmackay.com.au/sarina-field-of-dreams

Sarina Field of Dreams draft Activation Plan progresses

Council is continuing its work to activate and reinvigorate the Sarina Field of Dreams precinct.

A two-day Enquiry by Design workshop was held at Sarina last month, facilitated by experts in urban design and place activation.

Key stakeholders were invited to attend along with council officers to explore the opportunities for the precinct.

Feedback from the workshop identified that young people were an important stakeholder group and so a further consultation session was held with Sarina State High School students to capture their views and aspirations for the precinct.

The outcomes from both workshops will inform the development of a precinct activation plan, considering resources and feasibility.

This draft plan will be circulated for broader community consultation in late November, 2025.

Further information on this project and a factsheet detailing the Enquiry by Design process can be found here connectingmackay.com.au/sarina-field-of-dreams