Hotels and Accommodation near Harrup Park

The Great Barrier Reef Arena, commonly known as Harrup Park, is an oval sports arena in Mackay's Harrup Park. The site has a brand-new 2,000-seat grandstand that finished in March 2023. It also has improved amenities for players, fans, officials, and corporations to meet the needs of national and international sporting events, as well as a community plaza and green. In addition, there is a grassy hill, a smaller covered grandstand that can accommodate 200 people, and a view of the oval from the Harrup Park Country Club. Harrup has 61 associated sports, recreation, and leisure clubs, with 22,000 members and more than 1,000 foundation members. So, if you're looking for an incredible time, head to Harrup Park!

What is Harrup Park Famous For? 

John Ewen (JE) Davidson, a member of the Marylebone Cricket Club, which owns Lord's, participated in Mackay's inaugural official cricket match. He served as the MCA's Foundation President. Henry Finch Hatton and his brother Harold arrived in Mackay in 1872 and 1875, respectively, and were avid cricket players who became members of the Mackay Cricket Club. According to Henry and Harold's ancestors, the 8th Earl of Winchilsea, Edward Finch Hatton, and two other men had purchased land that would eventually become Lord's. 

When Queensland Country XI played the visiting West Indians in 1968, it was the first match ever recorded on the ground. On the second day of the game, Rohan Kanhai scored 206 runs. The site hosted a single "Country Cavaliers" World Series Cricket match 1978.

On December 3 and 4, 1988, the facility hosted its first two List A one-day matches when Queensland took on the touring Pakistanis. On February 28, 1992, as part of the Cricket World Cup, India and Sri Lanka played a One Day International match at this location. The ground crew did everything they could to dry the outfield, yet heavy rainfall caused the cricket match to be cancelled after only two deliveries. Because of this, Indian batsman Krishnamachari Srikkanth and Sri Lankan fast bowler Champaka Ramanayake have two unique distinctions: Srikkanth is the batsman who made the only run ever in the one men's international cricket match played here, and Ramanayake is the only male international bowler to have ever bowled at the venue. Ajay Jadeja made her match debut in this match as well.

How to get to Harrup Park from Australia 

Getting to Queensland should be as easy as possible, regardless of whether you're flying in from another hemisphere or within Australia. The most practical way to arrive in Queensland is by air; however, bus, rail, and cruise services are all conveniently accessible in the city's centre and offer a more fabulous selection of less expensive options.

Queensland's network of top-notch airports provides service to our well-known locations. We have 14 regional hubs and four international airports (Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, and Cairns). These airports are conveniently located near most of our top locations, making travel affordable for all budgets. 

Transportation Options near Harrup Park for Getting Around 

As a tourist who does not have a private car or wants to avoid leasing a vehicle, using public transport is a must. If you need to travel around Mackay, there are some public transportation options available for you to take.

By Bus

If you want to take the bus or tram, you must have a GoSeeq card for your journey. They offer you a single or package deal if you stay longer than a day. You can also pay for a single trip in cash to the driver. 

By Tram

Nothing different from the bus trip; you can use the same card to take a trip using the tram. You can buy the $19 card to use all day, all week. 

Accommodations near Harrup Park 

1. Mackay Oceanside Central Hotel

Loc: 2c East Gordon Street, Mackay, Queensland, Australia. 

You can stay at Mackay Oceanside Central Hotel while enjoying the ocean scenery. Only with AU$130 per night, you can have a comfortable room with a beautiful sunrise. 

2. Dolphin heads resort

Loc: 6 Beach Road, Mackay, Queensland, Australia. 

Dolphin Head Resort is located near Eimo Beach. the resort offers the best deal. start from AU$ 100 per night, you can stay and rest after a long day on the beach. 

3. Oaks Mackay Rivermarque Hotel

Loc: 55-63 River Street, MacKay, Queensland, Australia. 

If you are visiting Mackay with your family, this resort can be your go-to place for a stay. Not only is it near a beach and Harrup Park, but you can also play at the bluewater lagoon. Bluewater lagoons provide a lagoon for your children to play in the water and parents can sunbathe. Starting from AU$ 200 a night, you can use the full facilities and walk away from a family park. 

Tourist Destinations near Harrup Park 

While visiting Harrup Park, you can visit other places around Harrup Park. Here are some destinations you can go to while in Harrup Park.

Bluewater Lagoon

Take a cool dip at Mackay City's Bluewater Lagoon and experience the excitement of a beach inside the city. The lagoon is an ideal getaway for people of all ages, featuring three depth-appropriate lagoons, an interactive children's water playground, and a water slide. A shallow wading pool is ideal for kids, and the waterfall that unites the two major lagoon pools is a showpiece.

Artspace Mackay

Visit Artspace Mackay, the regional museum and art gallery located in the heart of the city, to learn about the arts and culture of The Mackay Region. Through exhibitions and on-display artwork, visitors can study some of the most highly recognized artists in the world within an architecturally award-winning facility. Volunteer guides with extensive training are available for group excursions, offering guests an inside look at the on-display exhibitions.

Town Beach

The town beach is well-known for its breathtaking sunrises, with excellent views of Dalrymple Bay, the Flat, and Round Top Islands. Town Beach is a favourite spot for locals and tourists to enjoy walks in the late afternoon, go fishing, and observe the power of Mackay's enormous tides, which may reach great lengths during high tide.

Town Beach is a well-liked spot for kiteboarding because of the sea breeze coming from the southeast. Town Beach is an excellent place for a picnic or afternoon stroll, and it's only five minutes drive from Mackay's downtown.

Food Specialties near Harrup Park Worth Trying 

1. Fusion 128 Restaurant and Bar 

Mackay's Fusion 128 restaurant and bar is a well-liked local hangout. Customers are welcomed into a calm and welcoming environment thanks to the modern interior design. The restaurant provides various dining options, from a relaxed seated dinner to a bustling cocktail party. Fusion 128 offers a tempting menu with fantastic cocktails, appetisers like Turkish bread, and mouthwatering alternatives like crispy skin salmon and seared, twice-cooked pork belly. Their menu prices start from AU$6 only. 

2. The Church on Palmer Restaurant 

The best place to eat and host events in Mackay is The Church on Palmer Restaurant. The Church on Palmer Restaurant offers an impressive à la carte cuisine with the freshest locally produced produce. It combines a comprehensive selection of local and international producers' best wines, spirits, and beers. Natural oysters, Cream of Pumpkin Soup, Crispy Pork with Asian Salad, Confit Duck, and Lamb Shank are some of the menu items that stand out. 

3. The Flackyard 

The Flackyard is a well-known Australian eatery in Mackay that is known for serving delicious food in a welcoming atmosphere. Engage your taste senses with a gourmet adventure at The Flackyard. Each dish is expertly crafted by their committed staff, guaranteeing a gastronomic journey of thoughtfully crafted decadence. The restaurant proudly serves natural, organic, biodynamic, and preservative-free Australian wines.

Travel Tips to go around Harrup Park

If you plan on seeing Harrup Park and want to explore the surrounding area, there are a few travel tips to keep in mind. 

• Firstly, consider renting a car to get around and explore at your own pace. Several car rental companies are available at Mackay airport and in the city centre. Alternatively, you can also use ride-sharing services like Uber or Ola, readily available in the area.
• Another option is to take a taxi or hire a private driver. This can be more expensive than renting a car or using ride-sharing services, but it can be more convenient if you're uncomfortable driving in an unfamiliar area.
• If you prefer public transportation, several bus routes connect Harrup Park to the city centre and other nearby attractions. 
• When travelling around Harrup Park, it's essential to consider the weather and any activities you'll be doing. The region can experience a range of temperatures throughout the year, so it's a good idea to pack clothing that can be layered. In the summertime, lightweight and breathable fabrics and a hat and sunscreen are recommended to protect yourself from the sun. Sturdy shoes and insect repellent are also essential for hiking or exploring the outdoors. A warm jacket, gloves, and a hat will help keep you comfortable in the winter. Bring a water bottle and snacks to stay hydrated and energized throughout the day.
• Lastly, if you're up for some exercise and sightseeing, consider renting a bike to explore the area. There are several bike rental shops in Mackay, and you can easily bike to Harrup Park and other nearby attractions.

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