Supporting the next generation

Discover youth ambassador and bursaries opportunities designed to help young people taking their next step into the arts to grow, connect and thrive.

Youth Ambassador Program

The Youth Ambassador Program run by the MECC is designed to open a direct link from the MECC and the opportunities available to the Arts students of the Mackay region.

Budding drama performers, singers, dancers, sound designers, lighting technicians, curators, producers, or simply attentive audience members are invited to apply to be part of this engaging program.  Applications are currently open, and students are welcome to apply by completing the nomination form on our website.

Criteria:

  • Be enrolled in Years 10-12
  • Must have parental permission
  • Must be able to attend regular workshops, meetings or training sessions
  • Be willing to positively advocate the MECC and its programs and performances, including but not limited public speaking opportunities
  • Have the support of one teacher at your school who will liaise with the MECC Engagement Officer
  • This is a voluntary position

By being part of the program our Youth Ambassador will have the opportunity to enjoy special access to Arts events with like-minded peers, while gaining the opportunity to get hands-on experience in performing arts, technical productions, and media and marketing. They also will benefit from gaining an unique insight into the workings of the theatre and its productions while having behind the scenes access to performances workshops.

Applications open from Term 4 in the year before the program starts. Successful Applicants will be required to attend a compulsory induction in March, dates to be confirmed.

Want to have a chat with someone about the Youth Ambassador program? Email mecc@mackay.qld.gov.au or phone (+61)7 4961 9777

Youth Ambassador information and application form

Bursaries

Finishing school and continuing your studies in performing arts? This is for you.

The Jack Sturgeon Bursary for Performing Arts celebrated 25 years in 2026. Created in memory of the late Jack Sturgeon – a driving force behind building the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre – this bursary supports young people taking their next step into the arts.

The bursary is open to students from the Mackay Region completing Year 12 who wish to pursue a career in the performing arts.

Whether you’re a performer in music, theatre, dance, comedy, cabaret or a behind-the-scenes superstar in technical or backstage roles, we want to hear from you.

Jack Sturgeon Theatre Arts Bursary

First place prize:

  • $1,000 from the MECC
  • $2,000 from the Friends of the MECC

Second place prize:

  • $1,500 from the Friends of the MECC

KEY DATES
Applications open: TBA
Application close: TBA
Successful applicants announced: Shortly after the closing date

 

How to apply

Please submit an application that includes:

  •  A cover letter outlining why you should be considered (tell us why you’re the winning candidate!) and which university course you’ll be starting in the following year
  •  A brief resumé of your artistic achievements to date
  •  A USB/memory stick containing your artist portfolio with a maximum of 10 high-quality images of your work.

Digital videos and/or photos are accepted.

 

Where to submit your application

You can mail or deliver your application by hand.

Mail:
MECC
PO Box 1080
Mackay QLD 4740

In person:
MECC Box Office
Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre
258 Alfred Street, Mackay

 

If you have any questions, please contact meccsalesandmarketing@mackay.qld.gov.au.

Thank you to our sponsor

The Jack Sturgeon Bursary is proudly sponsored by the Friends of the MECC, who have generously donated $3,500 towards the bursary.

Friends of the MECC

 

 

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