Mackay’s water fountain taken down because of noncompliance

You may have noticed Mackay’s iconic water fountain is missing from its pedestal. Find out where it’s gone and what will replace it.

Chloe Waddell in front of the Mackay thistle fountain in-between Gordon St and Alfred St. Picture: Heidi Petith

The thistle water fountain at Mackay’s Civic Precinct brought joy to generations of children however it has been quietly removed, or technically, decommissioned.

Mackay Regional Council removed the fountain because the electrical circuitry and wiring were no longer compliant with current standards.

But if you were clinging to nostalgia in the hopes it would be made compliant and put back, you could be in for some disappointment.

Chloe Waddell in front of the Mackay thistle fountain in-between Gordon St and Alfred St. Picture: Heidi Petith

Mayor Greg Williamson said the council was engaging a consultant to present concept designs for its replacement.

“The iconic fountain ball has been removed to protect it from the elements in case we require it in the future,” he said.

“We are looking into concepts that incorporate the existing ball into the design, as well as entirely new designs,” he said.

Mackay Regional Council has taken down the iconic thistle fountain. Picture: Heidi Petith

“The most important thing is that it will be visually appealing and that it will help create community engagement and pride in the Civic Precinct.

“The cost to replace the fountain will not be known until we decide on a future design and go through the tender process.”

The original fountain and surrounding forecourt were built at the same time as the MECC, paid for by the council in collaboration with community-raised funds.

This image of the fountain at the Mackay civic precinct, taken by CQUniversity student Melissa Arnold is part of a showcase of the Mackay region presented to the Regional Economic Development Corporation.

“We know Mackay locals have a great deal of attachment to the fountain, and we hope the new design is something residents will be proud of,” Mr Williamson said.

“Hopefully, we may even see some happy couples getting their wedding photos in front of the fountain again in the future.”

Design concepts are expected to be finalised within 12 months.

The council will then seek to allocate funding in future budgets to build the new fountain.

COMMENT: What would you like to see replace the old thistle water fountain? Comment below.