The Mackay Port Authority today celebrates a 65 year milestone.

August 26 marked the official opening of the harbour in 1939 by Queensland Premier W. Forgan Smith.

Construction started in 1935 with rock for the southern and northern break walls being sourced from Mt Bassett.

The harbour project – under the direction of the Mackay Harbour Board -- was completed at a cost of 2.75 million pounds.

The Mackay Harbour Board became the Mackay Port Authority in 1989.