 Mackay joined the Western Reds in 1995, accepting the foundation captaincy of the Perth-based side, but moved back east when they joined the Super League franchise from 1996.He started playing for the Illawarra Steelers in 1996, staying for three seasons over which he played 56 games.A return to his best form and season-long consistency in 1997 earned him the BHP Medal as the Steelers' player of the year.