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A day of learning, connection and courage brings end‑of‑life planning into the open. 

The Good Life, Good Death Expo in Mackay proved something powerful over the weekend: when a community is given a safe, welcoming space to talk about ageing, dying, death and grief, people show up. The event drew families, carers, health professionals and curious locals who were ready to learn, connect and engage with topics that are often left unspoken, yet shape some of life’s most important moments. 

Hosted by Palliative Care Queensland with support from Northern Queensland PHN, the expo transformed the Mackay Entertainment Centre into a hub of practical guidance and compassionate conversation. The Expo began with a traditional Smoking Ceremony led by Uncle Phil. The ceremony offered an opportunity to cleanse the space and acknowledge the deep cultural connections to Country, setting a respectful and reflective tone for the day, followed by a heartfelt Welcome to Country by Aunty Vee, Elder of the  Yuwi Aboriginal Corporation RNTBC Mackay Qld. In her welcome, she reminded attendees that “Death is not the opposite of life; it is part of life.” Her words resonated throughout the day, setting a thoughtful and compassionate tone for conversations that encouraged people to embrace planning, connection and open discussions about ageing, dying, death and grief. 

Attendees moved through the venue at their own pace, exploring advance care planning, learning about their legal rights and options, connecting with local support services, and accessing grief and family resources designed to help people feel informed, empowered and less alone. 

A major part of that experience came from the exhibitors, whose contributions reflected the breadth of support available across Queensland. Hospital and health services including Mackay Hospital Palliative Care, Mater Private Hospital Mackay Palliative Care Service, BlueCare Regional and Remote Palliative Care, ATSICHS, provided clinical insight and reassurance, helping attendees navigate complex topics with confidence.  

Holistic and community‑focused providers added another layer of richness to the expo. From Turtle Street Woodcraft, Toni the Celebrant, Counselling & Canine Connections, Australian School of Mediation and Yoga (ASMY), Mackay Acupuncture Natural Medicine, Glenella Care Respect, Newhaven Funerals, NS Lawyers, Concierge Nursing Services and Dementia Together.These exhibitors offered perspectives that honoured local knowledge, culture, creativity, spirituality and personal wellbeing. Their stalls became places where people paused, reflected and found support that extended beyond medical care. 

Statewide services rounded out the exhibitor group, offering specialist knowledge that helped attendees understand their choices and rights. Voluntary Assisted Dying Queensland (QVAD), the Statewide Office of Advance Care Planning (OACP) and Palliative Aged Care Outcomes Program (PACOP) played a vital role in making the expo both practical and accessible.  

The public mini‑forum was another highlight of the weekend. Speakers from Queensland Children’s Hospital, Mackay Funerals, VAD, PACOP, NS Lawyers, the Statewide Office of Advance Care Planning and Dementia Together, sparked thoughtful discussions across the room. 

Health professionals and educators including, PallConsult, BlueCare Regional and Remote Community Palliative Care, Mackay Hospital Palliative Care, and Specialist Palliative Rural Telehealth Service (SPaRTa), were central to the expo’s impact. Their sessions were designed to strengthen the knowledge and confidence of GPs, aged care workers and other health professionals, ensuring they feel equipped to support people through ageing, illness and end‑of‑life decision‑making.  

As we look ahead, the momentum from this weekend will continue to guide our work. The conversations started in Mackay don’t end here, they grow, deepen and strengthen our communities. For those who attended, and those who wished they had, there will be more opportunities to learn, connect and engage with the topics that matter most. You can explore our community programs on our website at palliativecareqld.org.au or stay updated on future events to keep the conversation going.