A Walking Tour Of Mackay With Vanessa Harrower From Anytime Tours
In the heart of Mackay, a new venture is taking shape, offering a unique window into the city's rich tapestry of history and culture. Anytime Tours, founded by Joanne Vanessa Harrower, known by her husband and friends as Vanessa, is redefining local tourism with her personalised, immersive walking tours. But what sparked this innovative idea?
It all began when Vanessa, a seasoned nurse with nearly two decades in healthcare, experienced compassion fatigue and sought a change of career and lifestyle. A transformative family holiday to Iceland planted the seed for her new career path. It was there, amidst Iceland’s stunning landscapes, that Vanessa envisioned the potential for walking tours in Mackay—a city with a rich history but limited tourist-focused experiences. Upon returning to Australia, the idea took root, further inspired by the lack of engaging activities for her visiting guests and a desire to stay connected with people while exploring a new field.
What sets Anytime Tours apart from other local tour operators is its commitment to providing intimate, educational experiences. Each tour is designed for small groups, offering a deep dive into Mackay’s history and culture. Participants are treated to access to at least two historic buildings and a delightful morning tea at a local café. Vanessa’s approach is not only about showcasing Mackay’s landmarks but also about making the experience accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Tours are flexible, allowing customisation based on interests and timing, ensuring a personal touch that caters to various preferences.
The selection of routes and sites is a labour of love for Vanessa. She carefully curates each tour based on her own interests and those of her family. The routes are tested and refined to ensure accessibility for all, including prams and wheelchairs. This careful planning ensures that every participant, regardless of their mobility level, can enjoy the tour. Vanessa’s children have even served as a gauge for determining which sites are engaging, reflecting her dedication to making the tours appealing and inclusive.
Feedback from participants highlights the impact of Vanessa’s thoughtful approach. One memorable instance involved an international resident who booked a private tour to better understand their new home. The tour covered not just local history but also practical insights like parking sign meanings and language nuances. This experience underscored the broad educational potential of the tours, demonstrating their value beyond typical sightseeing.
The logistics behind Anytime Tours is a testament to Vanessa’s determination and the support from her family and friends. The process of setting up the business—from establishing a website to sorting out booking systems—has been a learning curve. Vanessa’s ability to connect with people and her fascination with their stories has been one of the most rewarding aspects of this journey.
Incorporating Mackay’s natural beauty, history, and culture into the tours is a priority. By focusing on walking tours, Vanessa ensures an eco-friendly approach that enhances participants’ enjoyment of Mackay’s riverfront and outdoor spaces. The tours cover a range of topics, including significant buildings, local clubs, and historical events, providing a comprehensive overview of the city’s development.
Looking ahead, Vanessa envisions a future where Anytime Tours expands beyond Mackay. Plans include hiring additional guides and potentially offering full-day tours across Australia. The idea of using Mackay as a base for broader regional tours excites Vanessa, reflecting her commitment to growing the business while staying connected to her roots.
As Anytime Tours continues to evolve, Vanessa’s journey from a healthcare professional to a tour operator exemplifies the power of pursuing one’s passions and making a difference in a community. With each step, she is crafting a new narrative for Mackay, one that invites both locals and visitors to explore and appreciate the city’s unique offerings.
