Is Mackay worth visiting?

Yes, it is a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and beautiful national parks.

How long is the drive?

It is an 18-hour drive, usually taking 2-3 days.

You can take the Spirit of Queensland train from Brisbane to Mackay.

What is the best way to travel?

Flying is the most practical and fastest method.

Is the Bruce Highway safe?

It is a major road, but requires careful driving due to heavy freight traffic.

Hawks Nest

Mackay

Flight Driving

Hawks Nest to Mackay

Updated: 28 May 2026

The distance from Hawks Nest to Mackay is approximately 1,450 kilometers. For most travelers, flying is the only practical option, involving a flight from Newcastle to Brisbane and then to Mackay. Driving is a multi-day expedition along the Pacific and Bruce Highways, requiring at least two to three days of travel. Mackay is a major coastal city known for its sugar cane industry and proximity to the Great Barrier Reef.

Total Distance: 1,450 km driving distance; 1,250 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying is the fastest way, taking about 5 hours total.

Cheapest Way

Flying is often cheaper than the fuel and accommodation costs of a multi-day drive.

Compare Hawks Nest to Mackay Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	5 hours	18 hours
Avg Price	400-800 AUD	300-450 AUD in fuel
Operator	Qantas, Virgin Australia	N/A
Route	Newcastle (NTL) to Brisbane (BNE), then to Mackay (MKY).	Pacific Highway (A1) to Brisbane, then Bruce Highway (A1) to Mackay.
Tip	Book connecting flights on a single ticket to protect against delays.	Plan for at least two overnight stops in towns like Gladstone or Rockhampton.

Travel Tips

Booking
Book flights well in advance to avoid high last-minute prices.
Car Rental
If flying, rent a car at Mackay Airport to explore the surrounding national parks.
Sun Protection
The tropical sun is very strong; always wear a hat and sunscreen.
Dining
Try the local seafood; Mackay has excellent fresh options.
Weather
Check for cyclone warnings if traveling during the summer months.

Safety Tips

Driving
If driving, never push through fatigue; stop and rest.
Swimming
Only swim in designated areas; be aware of jellyfish in the ocean during summer.
Emergency
Keep a first aid kit in your vehicle if you are driving.
Communication
Mobile coverage is good on the highway but can be spotty in remote inland areas.