Born in London to a South African father and a Canadian mother, his parents were open to experiencing live in different places around the world.

[2] He learned to speak French fluently and when he returned to Australia he acquired the nickname Frenchie.

Cameron's father was born in South Africa, meaning Mackenzie was eligible to join the St Kilda Next Generation Academy.

However, a change to draft rules meant that St Kilda could not match a bid before pick 40.

[5] Mackenzie made his debut against Essendon at the MCG in the opening round of the 2023 AFL season.