Just got back from Mackay and Yeppoon.
I can highly recommend Mackay in winter.
I did not realise how cheap it is to get there until I looked into it
$200 return from Sydney with Jetstar .Booked 1 week before i went.
The spot where the local crew go is excellent.Low tide gives heaps of glass and the river runs out against the wind so light wind kiting is really fun the water is clear also .You also get a bit of a wave .Having consistent wind is a bonus.The wind seems to ave around the 15- 20 kt mark when the trade winds are set and if you wish to plan a weekend weatherzone have an excellent 8 day forcast which is quite accurate in susssing out the isobars.
I can highly recommend it for noobs who want to learn over winter.It is an awesome spot and Joe Millen is the local instructor.Winter down here is frustrating and can be dangerous for noobs in the gusty stuff.Mackay will get your skills and confidence right up there .
Yeppoon is a bit less in the trade wind strength dept.When I was there it averagesd around 10 kts but was fun with the 19 V and skimboard.We did an excellent downwinder from Emu Park to Yeppoon ,a really special experience.But I would recommend Mackay over Yeppoon in the windstrength dept.

Cheers

lach