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Great Barrier Reef Arena - a visitor economy magnet

The development of Australia's next great regional sports venue in Mackay, Queensland is a vital project for the visitor economy. SMC Strategies has been responsible for leading branding, strategic communications, advocacy and investment partnership.



Great Barrier Reef Arena will deliver major sports and cultural events generating over $30 million each year for the local economies of Mackay and Whitsundays regions of Queensland..


Great for Queensland, Great for Community

Mackay's reputation as Queensland's regional sports capital will reach new levels with the transformation of the city's most beloved sporting venue into the Great Barrier Reef Arena.

SMC Strategies worked in close collaboration with venue managers Harrup Park Country Club to successfully achieve Federal and State Government support for the $25 million project. A combined $20 million in Federal Government and Queensland Government funding was invested, reflecting the strong community and stakeholder support generated for the project through our work.

SMC also created the new name for the venue, Great Barrier Reef Arena, drawing on Mackay's intimate proximity to Australia's greatest natural wonder and the Whitsundays to develop a brand identity that will deliver sustained visitor economy benefit to the region.

Plans for the venue are highly regarded by AFL and Cricket Australia, with key national and international fixtures already slated for the Great Barrier Reef Arena in coming years.

SMC continues to work with the Club to realise plans for Stage 2 of the precinct, a regional indoor sports headquarters for participants in a multiplicity of sports at all levels from entry to elite.


Key Roles

  • Advisory

  • Storytelling

  • Advocacy

  • Investment

  • Community


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