Playgroups in Mackay | Weekly Playgroups for Babies & Toddlers
Feb 7, 2026
A Local Parent’s Guide to Playgroups in Mackay
Are you a parent looking for playgroups in Mackay? Those early years with little ones can feel both full and strangely lonely at the same time. Days blur together. Adult conversation is rare. And sometimes you just need somewhere to go, not to do anything special, but to sit, connect, and let your child play.
Playgroups can be a beautiful part of that season.
Whether you’re a new parent, new to Mackay, or simply looking for a regular rhythm to your week, this guide brings together a list of local playgroups across Mackay and surrounding areas.
(Details can change, so it’s always a good idea to check the group’s Facebook page or contact the school/community group directly.)
Why Playgroups Matter
Playgroups aren’t about structured activities or milestones.
They’re about:
children learning through play
parents finding connection and reassurance
shared cups of coffee and “you too?” moments
a reason to get out of the house when everything feels big
For many families, playgroups become part of the fabric of early parenthood.
Playgroups in Mackay (By Day)
Monday
Pinnacle State School — 9:30am–10:30am
Seaforth State School — 9:00am–11:00am
Northside Uniting Church — 9:00am–11:00am
Tuesday
Andergrove State School — 9:00am
Mirani State School — 9:00am–10:30am
Pindi Pindi State School — 9:00am–10:30am
Northern Beaches Community Playgroup — 9:15am–11:15am (Gold coin / $5)
Wednesday
Beaconsfield State School — 9:00am–11:00am
Bucasia State School — 9:15am–10:15am
Glenella State School — 9:00am–10:00am
Mackay North State School — 9:00am–10:30am (Gold coin / $5)
Thursday
Eimeo State School — 9:00am–10:00am
Mackay Central State School — 9:00am–10:30am
Nebo Possums Community Playgroup
The Neighbourhood Hub Community Playgroup — 9:00am–11:00am
Friday
Alligator Creek State School — 8:45am–10:45am
Carmilla State School — 9:00am–10:30am (fortnightly)
Eton State School — 9:00am–10:30am (fortnightly)
Farleigh State School — 9:30am–11:00am
Hampden State School — 9:30am–10:30am
Homebush State School — 8:30am–10:00am (every 3 weeks)
Gargett State School — 9:00am–10:00am
Dundula State School — 9:00am–10:00am
What to Expect at a Playgroup
If you’ve never been to a playgroup before, it’s normal to feel unsure.
Most playgroups are:
relaxed and welcoming
child-led (no pressure to “join in”)
free or gold-coin donation
come as you are spaces
Children can move, explore, snack, cling to you, wander off, come back again, all of it is normal.
You don’t need to stay the whole time. You don’t need to talk if you don’t feel like it. Showing up is enough.
A Few Helpful Notes
Days and times can change, especially with school calendars
Most playgroups don’t run during school holidays
Caregivers stay with their children at all times
Some groups are school-based, others are community-run
Checking the group’s Facebook page before attending is always a good idea.
A Gentle Local Reflection
The early years are full of moments we don’t realise are fleeting while we’re living them.
Morning routines. Tiny shoes. Sticky hands. Ordinary Tuesdays.
Finding community during this season matters.
So does honouring it, in whatever way feels right to you.
If you’re navigating early parenthood in Mackay, I hope this list helps you find a place where you and your little one feel welcome.
If you've ever thought about capturing these early years, I am a motherhood photographer and would love to hear from you.
Related Reading
If you’re navigating pregnancy or early motherhood in Mackay, you may also find these local guides helpful: