Above and Below Gallery has been awarded GOLD in the Retail and Services category at the 2025
Tourism Whitsunday Awards, recognising the gallery’s outstanding contribution to the Whitsundays’
tourism and creative industries.

Owner and photographer Brooke Miles said the recognition is a proud moment for the entire team and a reflection of the gallery’s dedication to sharing the beauty of the Whitsundays through art, along
with its reputation for great customer service.

“This award means so much to us,” Brooke said.

“Above and Below Gallery was created to share the natural beauty of the Whitsundays through high-quality art and gifts; from my camera’s perspective, and through prints that I feel truly capture the essence of our region.

“To be recognised among so many amazing local businesses is an incredible honour.

“I truly feel we go that extra step to ensure not only the product is perfect, but also our systems, team development and customer service.”

Located at the Boathouse Retail Precinct at The Port Of Airlie, Above and Below Gallery is known
for its breathtaking photographic art featuring the Great Barrier Reef, Whitsunday Islands and North
Queensland coastline.

The gallery’s prints, gifts and homewares are inspired by the vibrant landscapes
both above and below the surface.

“We’re so proud to represent local art and photography on the big stage,” Brooke added.

“This award is for also for my team, whom without I would be lost! Thanks to my team, Alicia, Katie, Kerry and Eira. Also, everyone who supports local, from our visitors and collectors to our small local makers. It’s a wonderful thing, to be able to do what we love, and love what we do!”

Photo credit: R Jean Photography

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It was another golden night for BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort, taking out Gold in the Caravan and Holiday Parks category at the 2025 Whitsunday Tourism Awards on Saturday evening.

The gala event, held at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, brought together tourism operators and businesses from across the region to celebrate excellence and innovation within the Whitsundays’ vibrant visitor economy.

For BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort, this latest Gold adds to an incredible track record of success. Following Gold wins at the Whitsunday, Queensland, and Australian Tourism Awards last year - and induction into the Hall of Fame at all three levels - the resort continues to shine as one of Australia’s most awarded and loved holiday destinations.

CEO Phil Casey, who attended the event with ten team members representing departments across the business, said the award was a proud moment for everyone at the resort.

“Winning Gold again this year is such an honour and a wonderful recognition of our team’s passion, hard work and commitment to delivering outstanding holiday experiences,” said Phil.

“It was especially rewarding to share the night with a group of our amazing team members from across the resort. Every single person plays a part in creating the friendly, family atmosphere that makes BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort so special.”

Phil said the recognition reinforced the resort’s dedication to maintaining high standards while continuing to evolve and invest in the future.

“We’ve enjoyed an incredible few years of success at every level of the tourism awards process, and we’ve been proud to represent the Whitsundays on the state and national stage,” he said.

“Our focus is always on enhancing our guest experience, and we’re really excited about the future with some new developments on the horizon that will bring even more reasons for families to visit and love the Whitsundays.”

Located on 10 hectares of lush tropical gardens in Airlie Beach, BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort is known for its extensive facilities and signature family-friendly atmosphere. The resort offers a wide range of accommodation options - from camping and caravan sites to luxury condos and accessible cabins - alongside more than 15 onsite activities including the popular waterslide park, lagoon-style pool, mini golf, and animal park.

Phil said the evening highlighted the strength and diversity of tourism offerings across the Whitsundays and the potential for continued growth in the years ahead.

“The calibre of products and experiences demonstrates just how strong the Whitsundays tourism industry is. With continued investment, innovation and collaboration, the future for our region looks incredibly positive,” he said.

Photo credit: R Jean Photography

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Bowen’s famous Big Mango has added another accolade to its growing list of achievements, taking home Bronze in the Attractions category at the 2025 Whitsunday Tourism Awards.

Five members of the Bowen Tourism and Business team attended the event on Saturday night, along with committee chair Jenn Honnery, proudly representing the town’s most recognisable landmark.

The Big Mango is no stranger to success, having previously won Silver in the same category. The Bowen Visitor Information Centre, located next to the Big Mango, is also in the Hall of Fame for Visitor Services after taking home the top honour three years in a row.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said this topped off a great year for Bowen’s iconic Big Thing which was named the “Best Big Thing” in Queensland as part of the Queensland Day awards in June.

Travellers from near and far love visiting the Big Mango, which attracts thousands of visitors each year keen to snap a selfie with the 10-metre-tall structure. The Visitor Information Centre, next door, features more than 300 brochures showcasing destinations across Queensland and is staffed by a dedicated team of locals and volunteers who pride themselves on their regional knowledge. Leanne also expresses her thanks to all of them, without them they couldn’t do what they do.

The centre also offers mango sorbet, local produce, and a wide range of Bowen merchandise. Bowen Tourism and Business extended thanks to Tourism Whitsundays, the committee, the Whitsunday Regional Council, and their team for their ongoing support.

Photo credit: R Jean Photography

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With passion, grit and decades of guiding experience under her belt, Cherene Poidevin of Driftwood Tours has claimed GOLD in the Land-Based Tours category at the 2025 Whitsunday Tourism Awards, and she did it as a one-woman team.
“I want to jump up and click my heels!” Cherene laughed. “After guiding many years for others and giving it 100%, it is a dream to do it for myself now and give it 150%.”
This is not her first brush with success. Driftwood Tours was awarded Gold for Best New Tour Business in 2023 and took home Bronze for Cultural Tourism and Finalist for Tour Operator in 2024.
Cherene attributes her win to a focus on genuine, friendly service and attention to detail. “Every guest should feel welcomed and seen,” she says. “I have a passion for history, the stories, nature, and guests enjoy that I can chat to them about these and make the tours engaging and immersive.”
With over 30 years of experience in outdoor recreation and guiding, Cherene still attends professional development courses yearly to maintain high standards. “I am sole owner and operator,” she says proudly.
She thanks “The whole world! Guests, agents, locals and my friends,” for their support.
With the introduction of a separate land-based category, Cherene believes the change “gave those operators a chance to be recognised and that it is not only the islands that have fantastic experiences.”
“What a daily buzz to be able to take visitors from all over the world to experience this paradise,” Cherene emphasised.

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Photo credit: R Jean Photography

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Ocean Rafting has added another accolade to its impressive collection, taking home Gold in the Best Marketing category at this year’s Whitsunday Tourism Awards.

The win marks yet another milestone for the long-standing family-owned business, which has been showcasing the beauty of the Whitsundays and Great Barrier Reef for more than 25 years. Over that time, Ocean Rafting has become a multi-award-winning operator at local, state, and national levels, recognised for excellence, innovation, and sustainability in tourism.

Nathan Fleming, Sales and Marketing Captain for Ocean Rafting, expressed pride in the achievement.

“We couldn’t be prouder to receive this award,” he said.

“Jan and Pete Claxton, along with their sons Cole and Kerr, have been the heart and soul of Ocean Rafting for more than two and a half decades. Their passion, dedication, and love for showcasing the Whitsundays to the world have built this iconic brand — and having this stunning region as our backdrop makes it all the more special.”

Ocean Rafting’s winning formula lies in its combination of adventure, authenticity, and environmental care.

The company’s eco-certified tours take small groups on exhilarating journeys to remote snorkelling sites and beaches around Whitehaven Beach and the Great Barrier Reef, offering guests an unforgettable experience that balances excitement with education.

“What truly makes us shine is our people — a passionate team of locals and Master Reef Guides who share their knowledge and love for the reef every day,” said Nathan Fleming.

“Our custom-built vessels allow guests to access remote snorkelling sites and beaches that others simply can’t reach, delivering a one-of-a-kind experience that’s both exhilarating and educational.”

In addition to its ongoing conservation and eco-tourism initiatives, Ocean Rafting recently expanded its operations by acquiring Hamilton Island Water sports from the Harvey family on July 1, 2025, a move that extends its reach across the Whitsundays.

The team expressed gratitude to their staff, industry partners, and the local community for their continued support over nearly three decades.

Reflecting on this year’s refreshed awards format, Ocean Rafting praised the approach for celebrating a broader mix of local operators.
“The new format was a fantastic opportunity to shine a light on some of the hidden gems in the Whitsundays — operators who may not always have the resources or time to put together award submissions,” they noted.

“It brought a fresh energy and new vibe to the event, allowing a wider mix of local businesses to be recognised and celebrated.”

With its latest Gold win, Ocean Rafting continues to set the standard for excellence in tourism marketing, adventure, and sustainability.

Photo credit: R Jean Photography

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A local favourite in the Whitsundays tourism scene has once again been recognised for excellence, taking home Gold in the Self-Contained Accommodation category at the 2025 Whitsundays Tourism Awards.

Since taking over the property in July 2021, Paul and Francine Tuddenham have collected an impressive list of accolades, including the 2022 ARAMA Resident Manager of the Year (Short Term), the 2022 Whitsundays Tourism Award for Excellence in Customer Service, and the 2024 Best of Queensland Accommodation Award.

This year, they added another ARAMA title and were also named on the Queensland Tourism Council’s Gold List of Australian Accommodation – Self Catering.

“The award means a lot to us, and we are very grateful and humbled to have won it,” they said.

“Winning an award from Whitsunday Tourism, ARAMA, or Queensland Tourism is a big accomplishment for us and we value it highly.”

Paul and Fran believe what makes Peninsula Airlie Beach so successful is their passion and personal service.

“We both love what we do, it has become part of our life as we live on-site and work in the business 7 days a week,” said Paul.

“We also provide a personal service to our guests by treating the guests the way we would like to be treated.”

They extended thanks to their team, including Office Manager Dorothy, handymen and gardeners Steve and Lex, the cleaning team lead by Neve, and the property owners.

“Thank you to all the award winners, nominees, and sponsors. We are proud to be part of the Whitsundays and the tourism industry.”

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Let's raise a glass to the passionate and dedicated team at Portland Roads Sailing the Whitsundays.
What a night it was at the Tourism Awards, with Portland Roads Sailing the Whitsundays taking out the top gong for Bareboating!
With thousands of happy sailors sharing their stories, this Aussie favourite has proven, once again, why it’s the go-to for Whitsundays bareboat (self-skippered) sailing adventures.
Whilst their review count is impressive, it is the storytelling in their reviews that captures your attention. There are no flippant clicks; each guest dives deeply into their experience, and a real connection is evident.
What stands out even more is their consistent and extraordinary scoring. A Best of Queensland Experience score of 100/100 for the 6th year in a row, backed by a Global Review Index (GRI) of 100%
Taking out GOLD at the Tourism Awards is further proof that the new paradigm of TOMORROW’S REEF TODAY, along with Reef Custodianship, First Nations Connectivity, and Immersive Travel can go hand in hand with Extraordinary Holiday Experiences.
"Mununandu” said John Linton in accepting the award, "Mununandu is an Ancient Ngaro Sea Country thank you. We thank the elders of Ngaro, Gia and Juru for permitting us to set sail in their wake. It is an honour”
In a moving speech, John went on to say, “20 years in the making, and we are humbled. To our team, Mununandu! Thank you for your Passion, your Compassion, and your Outstanding Customer Service. This is just a reward”
Portland Roads Sailing the Whitsundays were also the inaugural winner of the Best of Queensland Experience in 2023.
GOLD at this year’s Tourism Awards continues its award-winning, customer-focused success.
In full praise, John said, "Our industry was founded by trailblazers with a passion for sailing some 40 years ago. The evolution of the bareboat industry since then is a credit to all Whitsunday Bareboat Operators. To now lead this group, with our focus clearly on the fragility of our footprint, is an honour, and speaks volumes of our connection with the guest experience.”
Ecotourism Australia’s auditor commented, “Rarely do you come across an operator that is so absolutely committed to sustainability and ecotourism in all forms; however, Portland Roads Sailing the Whitsundays is just that operator. They live, eat and breathe the principles of ecotourism and particularly embrace the culture and indigenous history in the area in which the business operates. Portland Roads is a shining example of ecotourism in action, ensuring the customer experience is exceptional, and the business is sustainable in all aspects of their operation. Cultural respect and sensitivity are embraced and shared.”
Tourism Whitsundays welcomes Portland Roads Sailing the Whitsundays to the honours board.

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Queens Beach Tourist Village has once again been recognised among the region’s best, taking home Silver in the Caravan and Holiday Parks category at the 2025 Whitsundays Tourism Awards.

For managers Bob and Mel Fotheringham, the win was especially meaningful as it marked their first full year of managing the park.

“It’s a great achievement considering this is our first year as new management and for the company as owners,” Mel said.

“We know we are doing something right.”

The latest award continues a proud tradition of success for the Bowen-based holiday park, which has now secured silver for four consecutive years in the regional tourism awards. It also follows a string of notable achievements on the national stage. Queens Beach Tourist Village is a three-time Grey Nomads Award winner, earning a place in the Hall of Fame, and was recently listed on the 2025 Gold List of Australia Caravan Holiday Parks.

While some might focus on the colour of the medal, the Fotheringhams say the ongoing recognition is a reflection of the park’s enduring appeal and the dedication of their small but mighty team.

“Our park is set out so perfectly over seven acres, with hedging between each site and that doesn’t happen overnight,” Mel said.

“This has been many years in the making, and credit must go to those whose vision made it possible.”

She said the success was shared by their loyal team, who take immense pride in maintaining the park’s presentation and guest experience.

“We are privileged to have a remarkable team working with us, they are dedicated and proud of the park, they really take care in their presentation each and every day,” Mel said.

“Our front office team are slick and efficient; we don’t have queues of people waiting to check in everything is ready and prepared so that after a long journey a guest has an effortless check in and can get on with the holiday and relax.”

Queens Beach Tourist Village attracts a mix of travellers year-round, from grey nomads who return each season to corporate guests who make the park their home away from home.

Mel and Bob expressed heartfelt thanks to all who support the business.

“We’re grateful to our wonderful guests and grey nomads who call this park home whenever they’re in Bowen, and to our corporate clients who stay with us time and again,” Mel said.

“Last but not least our staff, for their dedication and commitment.”

Reflecting on the results, Mel said they weren’t surprised by the outcome but remain proud of their consistent success.

For the Fotheringhams, this year’s silver win is not just a trophy on the shelf it’s a reminder of their hard work, their team’s pride, and the strong community of visitors who keep returning to Bowen’s beloved Queens Beach Tourist Village.

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The SeaLink Whitsundays brands have once again cemented their position at the forefront of Australian tourism, claiming four major accolades at the 2025 Whitsunday Tourism Awards. Whitsunday Jetski Tours led the charge, taking out Gold for Best Day Tour – Water, in a standout result across water and land tour categories.
This headline win builds on recent momentum for the jetski brand, which was named the world’s No. 1 tourism experience in Tripadvisor’s 2024 Best of the Best Awards.
“We’re absolutely thrilled for the team, who deserve every one of those five-star reviews,” said Operations Manager Nathan Linnell. “It’s a well-earned recognition of their hard work and passion. Nights like this make you realise how lucky we are to work with such a dedicated, adventurous and fun crew.”
Alongside Whitsunday Jetski Tours’ success, SeaLink Whitsundays’ performance marked a clean sweep across key categories:
• Whitsunday Jetski Tours – Gold, Best Day Tour – Water
• Red Cat Adventures – Silver, Best Day Tour – Water
• SeaLink Whitsundays – Bronze, Best Day Tour – Water
• Red Cat Adventures – Bronze, Best Day Tour – Land
These accolades are particularly significant as they are based on customer satisfaction data and guest feedback, reflecting the group’s dedication to exceptional service and memorable experiences.
“This recognition reflects the strength and heart of our teams across the wider SeaLink Marine and Tourism family,” said SeaLink General Manager Asher Telford. “What makes it extra special is that these results come from our guests and community. They’re the reason we show up and do what we love every single day.”
Operating in one of Australia’s most iconic destinations, SeaLink’s success mirrors the Whitsundays’ standing as a global tourism hotspot. Home to the Great Barrier Reef, Whitehaven Beach and pristine island waters, the region remains a bucket-list experience for travellers worldwide.
Red Cat Adventures has built an outstanding reputation, highlighted by four Gold medals at the National Australian Tourism Awards and induction into the Queensland Tourism Awards Hall of Fame.
“We’ve been fortunate to win a few awards over the years, but nights like this are always a proud moment especially for our crew,” said Asher.
Eight team members attended the awards night in Proserpine, with a wider celebration planned to recognise staff across all brands.
“We’ll be keeping the good vibes going this Friday with a celebration for all our wider teams from Whitsunday Jetski Tours, Red Cat Adventures and SeaLink Whitsundays, Hayman Island water sports because these wins belong to everyone,” Asher said.
When asked what sets the group apart, the answer was unanimous: people.
“We’re extremely grateful to our agents, suppliers, and industry partners, along with the wider Whitsundays community, for their ongoing support and collaboration,” Asher said.
“Most of all, we’d like to thank our incredible staff and crew for their dedication, as well as our amazing customers who choose to travel with us and share their experiences. This recognition is a true reflection of everyone who contributes to making our tours the best in the Whitsundays.
“Whether it’s riding a jetski, a sailing trip, a Whitehaven Beach tour, or a snorkelling adventure to the Great Barrier Reef, we ensure every experience is safe, fun and unforgettable.”
SeaLink Whitsundays takes its environmental responsibilities seriously, holding Advanced ECO Certification and Climate Action Leader status, and actively participating in reef conservation, seagrass monitoring, community initiatives and local training programs.
“Behind the scenes, there’s a huge amount of heart that goes into what we do, from supporting marine conservation to backing local events and student training programs. We’re always looking for ways to give back to the region that’s given us so much,” Asher said.

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Shingley Beach Resort has been recognised among the best in Queensland’s tourism industry, earning a Silver award in the 3–3.5 Star Accommodation category at the 2025 Whitsundays Tourism Awards.

The honour marks a milestone moment for the Airlie Beach resort, believed to be Shingley’s first-ever award. While unable to attend Saturday night’s event, General Manager Geoff Canard said he is proud of the achievement and admiration for fellow winners.

“Congratulations to all winners, not only for their dedication and heart-warming efforts, but for highlighting our tourism potential in our beautiful part of the world,” he said.

“It means a lot to me to be part of it all, Airlie Beach is my home.”

They described the Silver accolade as a shared success among the resort’s community of owners and investors.

“A silver win is a gold win on behalf of every owner and investor here at Shingley,  none more invested than me,” they said.

“I’m so thrilled to be able to deliver value and service to our market, and to have an amazing supportive committee as well helps.”

Shingley Beach Resort impresses guests with its friendly atmosphere and welcoming facilities that keep guests coming back year after year.

Geoff said almost everyone turns up hot, tired, or maybe even cranky, and providing a welcoming environment is something Shingley Beach Resort takes pride in.

Whilst winning the silver in the 3 – 3.5-star accommodation category, Geoff is proud to announce that the resort has been undergoing upgrades, with several apartments now achieving 4.5 to 5-star ratings.

Shingley Beach Resort wouldn’t be the resort it is without the team behind the scenes.

“I want to thank all my staff, past and present especially Tracey Tyler for her support over years. This win is a shared win in my eyes, so thank you so much Tracey, I wish her the very best for her family and future.”
  
The award cements Shingley Beach Resort’s growing reputation as one of Airlie Beach’s most welcoming and well-loved accommodation options, and the team are only looking onwards and upwards.

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Whitsunday Regional Council is celebrating another tourism success, with the Shute Harbour Marine Terminal taking out Silver in the Attractions category at the 2025 Whitsunday Tourism Awards, held at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on Saturday night.
 
The award recognises the Terminal’s outstanding contribution to the visitor experience and its role as the gateway to the Whitsunday Islands, welcoming hundreds of thousands of passengers each year.
 
Operated by Whitsunday Regional Council, the modern facility has become a cornerstone of the region’s tourism infrastructure, offering first-class amenities and a seamless connection between the mainland, island resorts and visiting cruise ships.
 
Mayor Ry Collins said the recognition was another proud moment for Council and the region’s thriving tourism industry.
 
“The Shute Harbour Marine Terminal is much more than a transport hub — it’s a stunning first impression of the Whitsundays,” Mayor Collins said.
 
“The facility has also become an increasingly popular arrival point for cruise ships, with thousands of passengers now disembarking directly at Shute Harbour to explore our region.
 
“Each visit brings an estimated 4,000 passengers, delivering a welcome boost to local businesses, tour operators and hospitality venues, and helping share the Whitsundays’ unique charm with new visitors from around the world.”
 
Council’s Director of Commercial Businesses, Craig Turner, said the award reflects the strength and quality of Council’s tourism assets, including the multi-award-winning Whitsunday Coast Airport, which achieved Hall of Fame status last year after multiple gold wins in the Retail, Hire and Services category.
 
“Our tourism infrastructure plays a critical role in supporting the $1.6 billion Whitsunday tourism economy,” Mr Turner said.
 
“The Shute Harbour Marine Terminal and Whitsunday Coast Airport are both world-class gateways that welcome visitors with professionalism, efficiency, and genuine Whitsunday hospitality.
 
“This recognition is a credit to our hardworking staff and to the strong partnerships we’ve built with the tourism industry to keep the Whitsundays shining on the world stage.”

Photo credit: R Jean Photography

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Wings Sailing Charters Whitsundays has sailed to success, proudly taking home the Crewed Overnight Sailing Tourism Award at the 2025 Whitsunday Tourism Awards. The accolade recognises their exceptional liveaboard guest experience, five- star service, and their dedication to showcasing the breathtaking beauty of the Great Barrier Reef Whitsundays through immersive skippered sailing holidays.

The award is another chapter in the long-standing story of excellence for Wings Sailing, who were previously recognised for their achievements in Adventure Tourism and Marine Experiences in 2010, 2011 and 2012, earned a QLD Steve Irwin Eco Tourism Award in 2012, and then inducted into the Whitsunday Tourism Hall of Fame the following year. Operating these days as a much smaller sized business, our core crew including Simond & Maddie attended the awards night.

Owners Amy and Mike Keyte shared their excitement about the win:
"We pride ourselves on a much more personalised service and passion that the team pours into every overnight holiday charter.”

“We are so happy to receive this award. It’s a true reflection of the hard work and dedication the Wings team brings to every onboard guest experience. 
Being recognised among the incredible tourism operators in our region is an honour, and we’re so proud to represent Airlie Beach and the Whitsunday region.”

The star of the show is the beautiful Wings III, a 60-foot luxe catamaran designed for comfort, privacy, and affordable adventure. Guests enjoy relaxed sailing, snorkelling, stand-up paddleboarding, with all-inclusive catering included,  leaving guests with more time to relax & enjoy their holiday.

Whether it's a family getaway or a romantic escape, Wings Sailing Charters delivers a private and personalised Whitsunday experience.

“We are still a locally owned and operated business coming up to 24 years in the
region!” Amy said.

“Together Mike and I custom built SV Wings III and have adapted the business over the years with varied tours and product offerings to suit the visiting market.” Alongside their signature 2–5-day overnight sailing holidays, Wings now also offers the popular Whitsunday Island Day Sail SUP & Snorkel Tour, and their newest addition, the Airlie Beach BYO Sunset Tour, designed for every type of holiday visitor.

The new award format this year provided a welcome opportunity for small operators like Wings to reflect on their evolution and resilience.
“As a smaller business, we all often wear many hats... The new awards format leads on from Best of Queensland results for outstanding product and services which provided a wonderful opportunity to showcase how we’ve evolved the business in the post-COVID Airlie Beach market.  This highlights our innovations in private overnight sailing holidays and day tours, while we continue to adapt and thrive in a changing tourism landscape.”

They offered heartfelt thank you to their “incredible team, local suppliers and tourism partners”, and most importantly our “guests”, who continue to trust Wings Sailing for their Whitsunday experiences. 

Winning this award inspires us to keep raising the bar. Our mission has always been to deliver unforgettable sailing & snorkelling adventures that leave guests with a deeper love for the ocean and the Whitsunday Islands.”

Photo credit: R Jean Photography

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Trivia And Cent Sale To Support Mackay Breast Cancer Support Group

An afternoon of fun, laughter, and community spirit is on the way, with the Member for Mackay’s Trivia & Cent Sale Fundraiser set to take place on Sunday, 26 October 2025, at the 500 Pavilion, Mackay Showgrounds.

Hosted by Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton MP, the event will raise vital funds for the Mackay Breast Cancer Support Group, which provides essential care and assistance to local women and families affected by breast cancer.

Guests can look forward to a friendly trivia competition, plenty of cent sale prizes, and the chance to connect with friends and neighbours — all while contributing to an important local cause during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Attendees are encouraged to gather a team, test their knowledge, and enjoy an afternoon filled with fun and purpose.

Scan the QR Code for more information

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When it comes to enshrining important aspects of our history, you need look no further than Mackay street names to see what matters to us; the names range from revered local war heroes, world-renowned racehorses, significant Queensland political figures, rugby league legends, and Australian cricketing icons, through to … some old tractors.

The names of local war heroes, young men who bravely sacrificed their lives for us, are respectfully remembered with poppies on the street signs in West Mackay; among them Thorning, Field, Mogford and McGinn Sts.

Some of Queensland’s most-significant political figures are recorded in Rural View street names: witness Bjelke Court, named after former Premier Joh Bjelke-Petersen. And Rudd St, named after Kevin Rudd, the former prime minister and current ambassador to the US who, rather unhelpfully for the current prime minister, called US President Donald Trump a “village idiot”.

Anyone with an interest in Australian horse racing will give a respectful nod to streets in Ooralea that acknowledge the revered status of Gunsynd, Makybe Diva, Kiwi, Tulloch, Carbine and the most-famous of them all, Phar Lap. It is well known that Phar Lap was killed by a dose of arsenic but a recent book argued strongly that Tulloch was also poisoned because he was too hard to beat.

Brisbane Broncos and Queensland stars Allan Langer and Glenn Lazarus are remembered in Eimeo with Langer Drive and Lazarus Court.

And some of this country’s most highly-regarded cricket legends are recorded in the streets of Glenella; Donald Bradman, Dennis Lillee, Alan Border, Ray Lindwall, Kim Hughes, the wicket keeper from Bundaberg, Don Tallon, are all recorded there. So is a more famous wicket keeper, Wally Grout.

Wally Grout’s name is also recorded in Aussie rhyming slang in a phrase once heard every day in pubs around the country and, sadly, heard less-often these days. For those too young to know, if you are ever in a shout with a group of friends at a pub and someone says: “It’s your Wally”, it means it’s your shout, your Wally Grout … but in a beautiful example of Aussie rhyming slang, you just say “it’s your Wally”.

There are other street names in suburbs and estates around Mackay that celebrate family history: Stuart Hindle Drive, Debbiesue Drive and Lois Street near Norris Road in Mount Pleasant are among the family names recorded and honoured by the Deguara family, significant cane farmers-turned-developers who are still shaping Mackay today.

But if you want to visit truly hallowed ground, the streets where the brand names of farm equipment are recorded and celebrated, you need to drive into Belmore Estate in Mount Pleasant.

Dexter Court, Albion Crescent, Chalmers Court and Bristol Court all take their names from tractors. And for those of you who are scoffing, thinking that is somehow funny or absurd, they are apparently damn good tractors.

Now I don’t know a lot about farm equipment generally or tractors specifically but I’ve done some research and I am willing to share some of the key insights I have uncovered about the tractors named in Belmore Estate.

Most of them have big wheels at the back and smaller ones at the front. Yep, rubber ones.

Although, Bristol produced those tractors that have a “caterpillar” track or rotating chain of interconnected plates instead of wheels, just like an armoured tank.

I imagine they were great in the wet season as they moved steadily through the slushy mud.

Anyway, those tractors are part of our story and take their place in the catalogue of names that say something about who we are, what got us here and what we celebrate.

It’s all very interesting but it’s a dry argument. Whose Wally is it?

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At The Mackay West Rotary Christmas Fair 2025

The Mackay West Rotary Christmas Fair 2025 is back and ready to light up the Mackay Showgrounds on Friday, October 24, and Saturday, October 25. This family-friendly event is free to attend from 5:30pm each night and promises two evenings full of festive fun, laughter, and excitement.

From the moment you arrive, the fair is bursting with sights, sounds, and smells that capture the magic of the season. Rides and amusements will keep the kids entertained for hours, from the Giant Slide and Dodgem Cars to Laughing Clowns, a Mini-Ferris Wheel, and the Teacup Ride. Fans of classic fair games can test their luck at the Ham Wheel, Meat Tray Wheel, Cent Sale, and Bottle Stall while hoping to take home a prize.

Food stalls will tempt visitors with a delicious mix of burgers, hot chips, hot dogs, ice cream, and plenty of sweet treats, keeping everyone fuelled for the festivities. Live music from local school bands adds to the atmosphere, with Saint Patricks Cultural Ensemble performing on Friday, and Mackay Orchestra Inc. and Mackay State High School Bands taking the stage on Saturday, starting from 5:30pm both nights.

As night falls, all eyes will turn skyward for the Andergrove Lakes Fireworks Spectacular at 8:30pm, lighting up the evening with dazzling colours and sparkling patterns. Families can also wander into Santa’s Cave to snap a photo with the man in red himself.

All proceeds of this community celebration go directly to local charities and initiatives supported by Mackay West Rotary. Over 75 volunteers work tirelessly to make this event possible, with holiday cheer every year.

The event is proudly supported by the following sponsors:

• M.P. Curtin & Company – as Presenting Partner
• Andergrove Lakes (fireworks sponsor)
• Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal Pty Ltd
• Hibble's Amusements
• Mackay Land Sales
• Beaconsfield Heights
• S.H. Tait & Co (Accountants)
• CJ Smith Homes
• WHF Constructions
• Rebetzke Homes
• DGH Engineering
• FMS Group

Rides, food, fireworks, and festive spirit await!

For more information, contact Ross Walker at rossandwendywalker@gmail.com or 0429 615 711.

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