DEBATE over the correct pronunciation of Mackay has been settled once and for all by the granddaughter of the city’s founder Captain John Mackay.
Christina Mackay-Lowes, of Brisbane, visited Mackay city to present some personal items that belonged to her grandfather to Mackay Regional Council.
At the presentation at a council morning tea, she told a story about her grandfather from “a feistier time in his life”.
“Grandfather was always adamant that Mackay was pronounced in the correct Scottish way,” she said.
“At times when someone addressed him as ‘Mack-A’, he ignored them.
“When the speaker persisted grandfather would say very innocently: ‘Oh, are you talking to me? My name’s Mack-eye’.”
Mrs Mackay-Lowes presented a portrait of Captain John Mackay to council, along with other personal items, including his Imperial Service Order medal and citation, which was signed by King George V, reading glasses and a jewelled cravat clasp.
“He’s wearing this (clasp) in the portrait. It has two rubies and a diamond.”
The portrait was painted by Swedish artist Oscar Fristrom, who settled in Brisbane. He was an internationally-recognised portrait and landscape artist.
“He exhibited in London and several of his works are owned by the Queensland Art Gallery.
“It (the portrait) is very lifelike.
“We have pictures of him from the same era and he captured him perfectly.
“I have known this portrait of my grandfather Captain John Mackay all of my life but, unfortunately, I never knew the man as he did not marry until rather later in life.
“My father Hugh Mackay was a very proud son and a keen historian.
“So my late sister Margaret Mackay and I were brought up with many stories of my grandfather and an awareness and pride in our links to this fine city.”
Mrs Mackay-Lowes also shared another story about her grandfather that had stayed with her since childhood.
“Amongst the pioneering party of seven that set out from Uralla was an Aborigine boy named Duke.
“Grandfather and Duke shared a very special bond but sadly Duke became ill on the journey and died. Grandfather recorded in his diary his great grief at Duke’s passing.”
Mrs Mackay-Lowes said she was delighted to present the portrait and memorabilia to Mackay.
“I feel sure that grandfather, dad Hugh Mackay, and my late sister Margaret would all be very happy for these pieces to find a permanent home in the city that bears his name.”
