The Mackay Regional Botanical Gardens is the beginning of the Bluewater Trail. Here you will find a showcase of beautiful and unique plants native to the Central Queensland coast. There are five culturally themed gardens which you can explore on your own or on a free guided tour.

The Catherine Freeman Walk walk winds along the Pioneer River to the old hospital bridge fishing platform. It is used daily by recreational cyclists, walkers and dog owners.

Continue along the Catherine Freeman Walk towards Bluewater Lagoon. Comprising of there-tiered lagoons it is an important attraction for locals and visitors alike. It is a free, family-friendly leisure facility overlooking the picturesque Pioneer River in the heart of Mackay's City Centre.

This part of the trail is an environmental reserve and is visited seasonally by many important migratory shorebird species. The walkway holds high conversation values in the area and is one of the most significant high tide roost sites for shorebird wader birds in Central Queensland. Visitors are able to learn about the wildlife in the area from one of the many informative signs.

The Iluka Park All Abilities Playground was officially opened in 2010, enabling children of all abilities to enjoy and experience all that the parkland has to offer. The focus is on fun with the playground offering plenty of interactive attractions from mazes to sensory platforms, musical instruments, climbing structures, water pumps and much more.