Attracting almost a thousand participants over eleven sessions throughout the year, BMA Kidspace continues to be Artspace Mackay’s most loved children’s program.

The program, Mackay’s longest running art and music program for toddlers, topped off a wonderful year in 2024 with a blockbuster Christmas celebration of art and music.

Deputy Mayor Karen May said BMA Kidspace was not possible without Council’s valuable partnership with BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA).

“The continued support provided by BMA means we can bring this delightful social and creative event to our community free of charge,” Cr May said.

General Manager of BMA’s Hay Point Coal Terminal, Linda Murry, said BMA is proud to continue its long-term support of the much loved BMA Kidspace program.

“Our employees and their families live and work in the region and being the program sponsor is a great way for BMA to contribute to the region’s vibrancy and livability.

“BMA Kidspace helps our workforce and their families to feel connected to the community by getting kids involved in a fun, and family friendly event.”

BMA Kidspace kicked off again in 2025 on Tuesday, February 25 and ongoing sessions will be held throughout the year.

If you have a toddler in your life, drop in on any of the upcoming dates between 10am and 2pm for artist-run craft activities and live musical entertainment from 11.30am to 12.15pm.

Deputy Mayor Karen May said the program was a great opportunity for children under five to experiment and have fun with art in a safe, cooperative learning environment.

“We are pleased to have assembled another superb BMA Kidspace team of skilled local artists including Rosemary Payne, Traci Lietzke, Cordell Steer and Pam Hutley, alongside accomplished local musician Kathleen Campbell, who never fails to get her little audience up and dancing.

“After a fun-filled morning, we encourage families to relax over lunch or a coffee at Foodspace or stay and draw inspiration from the artwork on display.”

Attend a BMA Kidspace event on the following dates: Tuesday, February 25 Tuesday, March 25 Tuesday, April 29 Tuesday, May 27 Tuesday, June 17 Tuesday, July 29 Tuesday, August 19 Tuesday, September 9 Tuesday, October 21 Tuesday, November 18 Tuesday, December 9 For regular updates on this ever-popular program, follow Artspace Mackay’s website and Facebook page.

Image caption: L-R: Mayor Greg Williamson, BMA representatives David Bonney and Brad Chase, musician Kathleen Campbell, Santa Clause and Artspace team member Billie-Jo Ogilvie celebrating Christmas with children at the last BMA Kidspace session for 2024.