Mackay accom and things to do

We are looking at going to a wedding next year which is in townsville but am finding flights $ with 2 adults, 1 child 1 infant. The sale fares never seem to be available dates we need.

We have now found tiger flights to Mackay and thought we could holiday in Mackay for a few days and hire car and drive to townsville (well actually Ayr) for a few days for wedding then drive back up a night in mackay and then fly home.

So wondering how long a drive it would be?
What to do in Mackay?
Where to stay thats family friendly and not OTT in cost.??

Thanks

ETA Hmm after reading more on tiger web page I dont think I want to fly them at all!!! Charge for pre selecting seats but if you dont they can't gurantee you are sitting with others in your party!! Check in 2 hrs prior recomended that means 0410 with 2 kids (nearly 3 and nearly 18 months)

ok not a huge amount to do in mackay, but everything is very close.
we have the blue water lagoon which is awesome for kids its covered and nice and have a great play area.
the quest is good and lanai apartments are good and central to everything

don't go to the illawong beach resort it was not nice at all.

lots of shopping, nice walks as well.
what time of year are you coming? as the beaches are nice but this time of year we have stingers, so most people avoid the beach all together.

the botanical gardens are nice.
the finch hatton gorge is a great walk if you like bush walking.
and the platypuses up at eungella are great if you don't mind a drive.

pm me if you want hun
we just moved here but are slowly finding all the things to do and see