In 2019, Mackay Regional Council purchased two riverside properties. This strategic purchase was made to protect the long-term vision of the Mackay Waterfront, and to allow this section of the waterfront to be accessible to the community. Council’s ownership of the properties ensures that the future development of these sites aligns with the precinct intent.

To further capitalise on the momentum of the Mackay Waterfront, Council then commenced an expression of interest (EOI) process in 2020 to test interest from the development industry. The EOI included the two riverside properties, along with four other council owned free-hold sites, situated in key locations across the city centre.  The EOI was the first step in a two-stage process which aimed to facilitate property and business investment within the Mackay Waterfront. The EOI was a chance to explore opportunities the market may be able to deliver on council owned sites, in conjunction with privately owned land. Respondents were encouraged to include innovative and/or creative development pursuits in their concepts and were required to meet the needs of the Mackay Waterfront Development Scheme.

Successful shortlisted parties were then invited to enter into a formal tender phase.  In December 2021 the ReNew Mackay Consortium was awarded the tender for the development rights of the six council-owned properties. This was an important milestone as it demonstrated serious private investment interest for the City Centre and Riverside precincts of the Mackay Waterfront.