If you can’t make it to the Mayor’s Charity ball this year, you can still show your support by purchasing online fundraising tickets for a chance to win an amazing Island Escape for two!

Valued at over $2000, the prize includes two nights’ accommodation on Daydream Island, a guided snorkel tour, a private dinner experience, a pamper spa package and an Ocean rafting adventure!

Entries are just $25, and every ticket is a donation to BMA CQ Rescue, the Bowen Community Centre and the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre.

Better still, enter the competition and attend the ball – limited tickets are still available!

For more information, head to proserpineentertainmentcentre.com.au

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One of the best parts of this job is seeing firsthand how passionate our Whitsunday community is about the places we love—and Dingo Beach is no exception.

When the swimming enclosure at Dingo Beach was damaged during Cyclone Kirrily in early 2024, it sparked a wave of concern from residents and visitors alike.

For many, this enclosure isn’t just a safety feature—it’s part of the local way of life. Families swim there, visitors cool off there and it is part of what makes Dingo Beach such a special place.

That’s why Councillors made a deliberate decision to pause and listen before acting.

We asked the community what they wanted—and they told us, loud and clear. More than 600 submissions were received as part of the consultation process, and the overwhelming response was simple: bring it back.

I’m proud to say that Council has made that happen. At our May monthly meeting we’ve endorsed the permanent refurbishment of the existing enclosure, with 22 structural posts to be replaced.

This approach not only honours the community’s clear preference but also delivers a practical and cost-effective outcome.

This isn’t just about infrastructure—it’s about listening, acting, and backing our coastal lifestyle. I truly believe this is a long-term investment in community wellbeing, safety, and the unique identity of Dingo Beach.

It’s also a great example of Council working in partnership with our community to deliver what matters most to locals and build a better Whitsundays.

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The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry has today released the full program for the 2025 Whitsunday Business Conference — a flagship event designed to inspire, inform, and connect the region’s business leaders, operators, and entrepreneurs.

Held as a full-day conference in Cannonvale, the program showcases an impressive lineup of keynote speakers, industry panels, practical sessions, and networking opportunities tailored to the needs of the Whitsunday business community.

Mayor Ry Collins will officially open the event, including a major announcement confirming Whitsunday Regional Council’s formal commitment as a Small Business Friendly Council, reinforcing the region’s dedication to creating a more supportive environment for local enterprise.

Leading the day’s discussions is acclaimed business coach Judy Porter from Shiift, delivering the keynote address Get Out of Your Own Way — a call to action for business owners and leaders to step into their potential and drive purposeful growth.

A feature panel discussion, Working Better Together – From Vision to Impact, will bring together regional leaders to explore how collaboration is delivering real outcomes in infrastructure, housing, investment, and community development. Panellists include Elizabeth Hackett (Whitsunday Skyway), Terry Archer (Whitsunday Sailing Club), Justin Butler (Club Whitsunday), and Carol Norris (Greater Whitsunday Communities).

A networking segment will follow — Get Connected: Who’s Here to Help Your Business? — that will provide businesses with direct access to regional agencies and programs offering growth and support solutions.

Throughout the day, attendees will participate in four streams of concurrent sessions covering essential topics:

Round One

Thriving Leadership with Judy Porter/Shiift
Business & Community: Partnering for Positive Impact case studies with Rebecca Woods/Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, Annika and Ian Thomson/Ocean Crusaders, and Coutrney Quinn-McCrabe/Tassal and Libby Edge/Eco Barge.
From Solo to Scalable: Building a business that works with you, with Corrina Lindby/The Answer is Yes and Kate Tullett/Th3rd Dimension Media
Round Two

Ask An Expert: Money Matters for Modern Business with Gus Walsgott/Rural Financial Counselling Service, Kim Jamieson/APW, Justin Butler/Eclipse Financial Planning, Luke Sheppard/Bendigo Bank Business, Doug O’Connor/Option Insurance Brokers, and Fiona Erquiaga/Smooth Sailing Finance Consulting
International Recruitment & Migration: Driving Business and Regional Growth with Alana Hopkins, Workforce Abundance
Unlocking Motivation: Leading with Purpose and Impact with Brian Ward/BRIAN8
The Power of Storytelling: Using Personal Branding to Grow Your Business with Rachael Smith/Mackay and Whitsunday Life
Round Three

Ask An Expert: Local Marketing That Works with Melanie Laas/EMME Influence, Courtney Casey/Southern Cross Austereo, and Trish Jandt/Mackay and Whitsunday Life
Tendering: Top Ten Tips with Ros Weche/Queensland Department of State Development and Infrastructure
The Dying Art of Customer Service: 12 Rules for Success with Rick Brown
Ask An Expert: Smarter People Management for Small Business with Mark Lipkin/Airlie Group
Round Four

Leveraging AI and VR for Business Innovation and Social Impact with Simon Lowe/People Tech Revolution and Rachel Cliffe/Telstra Regional Australia
Future Skills, Regional Career Pipeline with Georgia Lavers/Greater Whitsunday Regional Jobs Committee
Ask An Expert: Finding Support Before You Need It with Cassandra Walsh/My Pathway
A networking segment titled Get Connected: Who’s Here to Help Your Business? will provide businesses with direct access to regional agencies and programs offering growth and support solutions.

The conference will close with an energising plenary, Power Up: What’s Next for Your Business?, a motivational finale focused on next steps and sustaining business momentum.

The 2025 Whitsunday Business Conference promises to be an unmissable event for anyone seeking practical knowledge, strategic insight, and meaningful business connections.

Conference Details

What: The 2025 Whitsunday Business Conference

When: 9am-5pm Thursday 28 August 2025

Where: TAFE Queensland Whitsunday campus, Cannonvale

Registration: Tickets can be shared within your team, allowing you attend what you can. Tickets include morning and afternoon tea, and lunch. Early bird registrations close 30 June, starting from $79: https://www.whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au/whitsundays-business-conference/

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Whitsundays Weddings Kicks Off New Era with Successful Meet & Greet

The Whitsundays' stunning azure waters and lush landscapes have long set the scene for dream weddings. Now, Weddings Whitsundays, a go-to resource for planning and promoting the region's weddings , has officially merged with the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce & Industry. This ‘marriage made in heaven’ creates a unified platform , promising unparalleled benefits directly to local wedding businesses.

This exciting transition was celebrated last Thursday at the first Meet & Greet under the new structure, gathering 30 enthusiastic attendees. A key highlight was the announcement of the 2025/26 membership fee dropping to just $299 per business , granting full access to the Chamber's facilities and benefits. Access to the Chamber's diverse resources is truly one of the most beneficial parts of this new structure.

As the Weddings Whitsundays Liaison, I manage day-to-day activities and am your main contact. I confirmed plans for an Advisory Committee (with 8 nominations received), set to guide our strategy from July. A comprehensive marketing plan will follow , including enhanced exposure options. We're also exploring a new website design and actively reactivating our social channels, encouraging members to share their content. This is more than a membership; it's an investment in a collaborative future, and I'm thrilled to have you on board.

Contributed with thanks to Cait Fleming Whitsunday Weddings Liaison.

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Effortless Luxury in the Heart of Airlie Beach

For those seeking the perfect balance between coastal luxury and convenience, The Boathouse Apartments stands out as Airlie Beach’s premier holiday address. Located right on the waterfront at the exclusive Port of Airlie Marina, this boutique collection of spacious two- and three-bedroom apartments delivers an unforgettable Whitsundays experience—tailored for families, friends, and couples who appreciate space, comfort and style.

Just a flat five-minute walk to the town centre, lagoon, dining precinct and ferry terminal, The Boathouse makes it effortless to explore everything Airlie Beach has to offer—from boutique shopping and café culture to island day trips and reef adventures. Yet, the property’s peaceful location on the marina’s edge means guests can retreat from the buzz whenever they choose.

Designed for relaxed living, each apartment offers open-plan spaces, full kitchens, and generous balconies with sweeping views of the Coral Sea or marina—ideal for morning coffees and sunset drinks alike. Whether you're travelling as a couple, a group of friends, or a multigenerational family, you'll find room to connect and unwind.

On-site, guests enjoy access to a large swimming pool, heated spa, full-size tennis court (the only one in town), and shaded BBQ pavilions—all surrounded by lush tropical gardens that echo the laid-back vibe of the Whitsundays.

The Boathouse Apartments has built a reputation for personalised service and consistently ranks as one of Queensland’s most-loved stays. By booking direct, guests enjoy not only the best rates but also the benefit of tailored local recommendations from a team that genuinely cares.

For a stay defined by coastal ease, stylish comfort, and proximity to everything that makes the Whitsundays iconic, The Boathouse Apartments is the smart choice. Whether you’re planning a short getaway or a long escape, this is where unforgettable memories are made.

Introducing Cala 14 – by Paradise Private Collection

Backed by the trusted team behind The Boathouse Apartments, Paradise Private Collection has launched with the exclusive management of Cala 14—a luxury three-bedroom holiday residence at The Cove, Airlie Beach. This beautifully appointed home offers guests a more private and spacious alternative, perfect for families, friends or couples seeking elevated comfort in a prestigious setting.

For those who love the quality and service of The Boathouse but want the added seclusion of a private residence, Cala 14 by Paradise Private Collection delivers the best of both worlds.

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Join the Crew Caring for Our Coast

Have you recently made the move to paradise and are looking for a meaningful way to give back to the community while protecting the local marine environment?

Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc. is calling on the Whitsunday community, including new arrivals, long-time locals and especially retirees with time and skills to offer, to join its growing team of dedicated volunteers. The organisation is currently seeking Core Crew Project Liaisons to help lead and support the delivery of key environmental programs at Eco HQ.

Each project requires a committed liaison officer who will be trained and supported in their role to coordinate volunteer activities and ensure each program runs smoothly and effectively.

Founder Libby Edge shared:

“I’m honestly feeling a bit overwhelmed—in the best possible way—with everything we’re achieving. From debris removal to recycling and creating circular economy solutions, Eco Barge is thriving. But we need your help to keep up with the demand and to stay productive and impactful.”

Eco Barge is proudly volunteer powered. With limited funding for staff, the organisation depends on community involvement to deliver its programs. With an influx of new residents to Airlie Beach and surrounds, Eco Barge believes there is a wealth of experience, time and heart ready to be channelled into something that makes a difference.

Long-time volunteer Shelagh Ford said contributing to Eco Barge has been one of the most rewarding experiences of her life.

“I moved here for the beauty and to be closer to my family, but it was through Eco Barge that I truly connected with the heart of this place. Every cleanup, every recycled item—it all feels like I’m giving back to something that gives us so much. And the friendships I’ve made along the way have been an unexpected gift.”

Volunteer opportunities include:

🐢Island clean-up trips

🐢Count and sort days

🐢Marine debris recycling shed operations

🐢Jewellery and art creation

🐢Native plant and habitat work with the Green Team

🐢Carpentry

Eco Barge simply asks for a regular commitment on days that suit each volunteer. In return, participants become part of a local initiative that’s making a tangible, lasting difference to the marine life and environment of the Whitsundays.

Come on board. Be part of the solution. Help protect paradise.

To express interest or learn more, visit www.ecobargecleanseas.org.au, or email Libby Edge directly at libby@ecobarge.org.au with details of the project you’d like to help lead.

Those interested in joining as a regular volunteer can also register via the website.

Eco Barge Volunteers at a turtle release early this year.

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Airlie Beach’s Newest Bar Opens

A fresh new face has joined the Airlie Beach hospitality scene, and it’s already winning hearts with its local charm, creative flair, and laid-back vibe.

Located at the quieter end of town, the newly opened venue has become an hit with locals and visitors alike thanks to its welcoming atmosphere, thoughtful details, and entertainment that’s unlike anything else in the area.

Owners Tommy and Dylan Gallagher and Blake Gee said they were looking for a new business venture, and from their shared love of golf and the desire to create something new for Airlie Beach, Mulligans was born.

Drawing inspiration from Japan, and the various activities available at similar venues, they combined an indoor golf simulator, pool tables and dart boards to create the laid back but fun environment.

Mulligans has been open for four weeks and the response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive.

“We’ve had locals literally shaking our hands saying thank you, not just for the entertainment, but for the small touches like deodorant and tampons in the bathrooms,” Tommy said.

“It’s things like that that show we’ve put thought into creating a place people feel comfortable in.”

With a strong local team the venue is proud to be fully locally owned and operated.

For June the venue has introduced a weekly event like the Monday night long drive competition, with a new TaylorMade Qi10 driver up for grabs), and with the everchanging and adapting food menu, Mulligans is constantly evolving.

Open seven days a week from 10am to 10pm, the venue aims for a more relaxed, daytime-friendly atmosphere rather than a late-night party spot.

“We want people to know that it's a nice place to come and drink, it has a nice atmosphere, chill environment, no loud volume and it's not rowdy.”

Did You Know?
At Mulligans they have received praise from Irish travellers, saying the best Guiness outside of Ireland is from Mulligans Airlie Beach.

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Marlee Lawley, Blake Gee, Tommy and Dylan Gallagher. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Beneath the postcard-perfect skies of our tropical region lies a confronting truth: many locals still have no place to call home. In the Whitsunday region, Whitsunday Housing Company Ltd (WHCL) is working to rewrite that narrative, by providing vital housing support and championing long-term solutions to ensure every individual has a safe, secure place to live.

Established in 2007, WHCL is a registered charity and not-for-profit community housing provider. The organisation delivers long-term, crisis, and transitional accommodation to people in need.

“Our goal is to advocate for, lobby and support the housing needs of the Whitsunday region,” says Chief Operating Officer Joanne Moynihan.

Since joining WHCL in 2014, Ms Moynihan has led the organisation alongside a dedicated volunteer board, striving to support those most affected by housing insecurity.

WHCL helps people on low incomes or experiencing hardship access affordable, stable, and appropriate housing. As the region’s Specialist Homelessness Service provider, the organisation also offers emergency accommodation, assistance for tenants in rental arrears, and support to secure long-term housing.

“In the past 12 months alone, we have supported over 400 individuals and families experiencing or at risk of homelessness in Cannonvale, Proserpine, Bowen and Collinsville,” Ms Moynihan says.

Ms Moynihan highlights the importance of community housing in regional areas like the Whitsundays, where rental prices and housing shortages are increasing pressure on vulnerable residents.

“Community housing plays a critical role in regional areas like the Whitsundays, where rising rental costs and a shortage of affordable housing options have led to increasing demand for homelessness support,” she explains.

“It supports people to rebuild their lives, maintain employment, keep children in school and stay connected to their communities.”

A key current initiative is the Tiny Homes Project, which addresses the rising homelessness among single women over 55 – Australia’s fastest-growing demographic in need. Thanks to the advocacy of Cr Jan Clifford, council donated land for the project's first site.

Fundraising efforts led by Sandy Clark, along with contributions from local businesses, volunteers, and Whitsunday Company Housing have raised over $730,000. Despite various setbacks, construction on the project will continue, but donations are still urgently needed due to rising costs.

“As a not-for-profit charity, we rely heavily on the generosity of the community,” says Moynihan.

“Having the community respond to calls for donations to support large and small endeavours is always gratefully appreciated.”

To learn more about WHCL or contribute, visit https://whcl.com.au or email admin@whcl.com.au

Your support could change a life, and give someone a place to call home. We’re not just building tiny homes, we’re building a community.

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Joining the Cold Chisel and Midnight Oil Tribute at the Airlie Beach Hotel is none other than John Swan Swanee.

Swanee is Jimmy Barnes’ older brother but is also a well-known performer in his own right. He has hits like ‘If I Were a Carpenter’ and ‘Lady What’s Your Name?’ but what led him to creating these hit songs.

Born in Glasgow, Scotland, in 1952, John Archibold Dixon Swan migrated to Australia with his family at the age of nine, settling in the working-class suburb of Elizabeth in Adelaide. His path to music began early, with a drum kit in hand and a hunger to express himself through rhythm and sound. By the age of 14, he was already playing in professional bands. At 17, he enlisted in the Australian Army but the call of music was too strong to ignore.

In the 1970s, Swanee became a fixture in Adelaide’s thriving music scene. He joined several bands, including the legendary Fraternity, where he took over lead vocals after his younger brother, Jimmy Barnes, moved on to form Cold Chisel. Swanee's powerful voice and dynamic stage presence set him apart, and by the late '70s, he launched a solo career that would take him to national fame.

His breakthrough came in 1981 with a soulful cover of  ‘If I Were a Carpenter’ climbed to No. 5 on the national charts and the success of that single led to the 1982 album ‘This Time It’s Different’, featuring enduring hits such as ‘Temporary Heartache’ and ‘Lady What’s Your Name’. Swanee’s voice is gritty, passionate, and unmistakably authentic and it resonated with Australian audiences, making him a household name.

But Swanee's story didn’t stop at rock stardom. In 1987, he joined the all-star band The Party Boys, stepping in as lead singer after the departure of Rose Tattoo’s Angry Anderson. The band were looking for a new singer and they had to have “the best Rock ‘n’ Roll voice in the country”.

Throughout his career, Swanee has released multiple albums, performed on stages big and small, and remained an enduring figure in the Australian music scene. Yet his greatest achievements may lie in the work he does away from the spotlight.

In 2015, Swanee was named South Australia’s Senior Australian of the Year, in recognition of his dedication to social causes. Two years later, in 2017 he was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for services to music and charity.  He later joined forces with war veteran Rob Pickersgill to create the Warrior Music Project, a program that uses music to support the wellbeing of military veterans, police officers, and first responders.

He has used his profile to support the Salvation Army, particularly focusing on homelessness and rehabilitation. He co-founded the Autism Music Fund, combining his passion for music with a commitment to improving lives, and is an advocate for ovarian cancer awareness.

Today, Swanee continues to tour, record, and give back, and now he is coming to the Airlie Beach Hotel.

Swanee will be joining Gold Chisel and The Australian Midnight Oil Show in what will be an amazing show.

The Australian Midnight Oil Show deliver all the classics including ‘Power and the Passion’, ‘US Forces’, ‘Dreamworld’, ‘King of the Mountain’, ‘Forgotten Years’, ‘Beds are Burning’, ‘Blue Sky Mine’ and more.

Swanee will be performing his own hits and also jumping on stage with Gold Chisel to belt out a couple Cold Chisel hits.

The Gold Chisel and The Midnight Oil Show have been to the Airlie Beach Hotel before and they always provide an epic show, this show will be especially amazing due to Swanee’s special performance.

WHAT: Gold Chisel & The Australian Midnight Oil Show ft. Swanee
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Saturday 21st June & Sunday 22nd June (2pm – 5.30pm)

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Precision Auto Marks Milestone

Celebrating their second successful year as a growing business who listens to their customer needs, Precision Auto Service is a family run business servicing the local population with care and efficiency.

The mechanics at your local Precision Auto workshop can provide assistance with a wide range of automotive needs. They service and repair vehicles in  Cannonvale, Airlie Beach and surrounding areas. From general repairs to engine diagnostics and replacement, Precision auto is the one-stop shop for all car maintenance services. The highly skilled team of Airlie Beach mechanics are qualified to carry out all types of vehicle repairs, including brake servicing, clutch replacement, timing belt replacement, tune up, general servicing, and more.

Precision Auto also offer safety certificates in Cannonvale/Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays. Precision mechanics are experienced at identifying any car issues your car may be having. The team of mechanics use the latest diagnostic tools and modern servicing equipment to identify problems and undertake repairs on your vehicle.

In Airlie Beach, Electric Bike and Scooter Repairs are incorporated and are done within the workshop offering all repairs and maintenance of E-Scooter and E-Bikes.

If its on the road with a motor they can fix it.

Precision Auto offer a variety of other services including:

• General car servicing
• Logbook car servicing
• Car repairs Safety / roadworthy certificates
• Brakes
• Steering
• Suspension
• Clutches
• Diagnostics
• Exhausts
• Air condition service & repair
• Auto Electrical Repairs & Installations
• Euro and Prestige Vehicle specialists
• E- Bike and E-Scooter repairs

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Manager of Precision Auto Matt Battams. Photo supplied

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With the developing technology of Ai, viruses and scams are getting smarter and anyone can fall victim, especially if you're not used to navigating the web.

First, the best way to avoid viruses is to use a trusted antivirus software and keep it up to date. Most programs run quietly in the background and automatically scan for threats.

Be cautious of emails or pop-up messages asking you to click links or share personal information. If something seems off, it probably is.

Avoid downloading unknown programs, and keep your computer’s system updates current.

If you’re ever unsure or think your computer might already have a virus, it’s worth getting it checked professionally. Dateline Computers can remove viruses, install protection, and help you stay secure.

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Keep your laptop or PC virus free by visiting Dateline Computers. Stock image

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Thinking about upgrading your computer but not sure where to start? For many users, making small hardware upgrades can make a big difference in speed and performance without needing to purchase a brand new PC or Laptop.

If your computer feels sluggish, upgrading your RAM is often the easiest and most affordable first step and swapping a hard drive to a solid-state drive (SSD) can dramatically reduce loading times. Gamers or creative professionals might notice improvements by upgrading their graphics card.

If you’re unsure what’s holding your computer back, Dateline Computers can assess your computer and recommend the best-value upgrades for your needs and even install the parts for you.

Whether you’re gaming, editing, or just tired of waiting for things to load, a targeted upgrade might be the affordable fix that you need.

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Dateline Computers can make repairs and also upgrade your laptop or PC to ensure faster speeds. Stock image

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The Best of Queensland in Luxury, Adventure and Adrenaline

The Whitsundays is one of the world’s most picturesque destinations in Australia, home to pristine white sands, turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs. In 2025, all SeaLink Whitsundays experiences received a perfect score (100/100) in the Best of Queensland Experiences Program, reinforcing their status as exceptional adventures in the country that customers can book with confidence.

Through three standout offerings, the SeaLink Whitehaven Beach Big Day Tour, Red Cat Adventures, and Whitsunday Jetski Tours, SeaLink Whitsundays offers something for everyone who visits the region, whether you seek serenity, discovery or full-throttle thrills.

Whitehaven Beach Big Day Tour: Luxury on Silica Sands
There are few places as iconic as Whitehaven Beach, where pure white silica sand glistens under the tropical sun. The Whitehaven Beach Big Day Tour offers a premium day out for those seeking extra comfort amid natural wonder.

Relaxing aboard a spacious, modern, air-conditioned vessel with sun decks and panoramic lounges, allows guests to cruise through the island-dotted Coral Sea. Onboard crew provide rich commentary on local marine life, reef ecology, and Indigenous history.

Your island experience begins with a guided bushwalk to Hill Inlet Lookout, one of the most iconic vantage points in the Whitsundays. From the top, sweeping views reveal the famous swirling sands and vibrant turquoise waters of Hill Inlet, a must-see natural wonder.

The second stop is at Whitehaven Beach, where you’ll have time to relax, swim, and enjoy the unspoiled beauty of its soft white silica sand and clear blue sea. Whether capturing the moment, taking a dip, or simply unwinding by the water’s edge, it’s a day immersed in the best of the Whitsundays.

Red Cat Adventures: High-Speed Island Exploration
Red Cat Adventures is famed for blending fast-paced fun with expert local knowledge and reef conservation.

The Thundercat delivers two incredible snorkel sites, a visit to Hill Inlet, and time on the world-famous Whitehaven Beach—all in one exhilarating day. For those seeking a slower rhythm, the Tongarra Day Sail offers snorkelling, sailing and sun-soaked lounging aboard a custom catamaran.

Wildcat’s Outer Reef Snorkel Adventure explores the magnificent Great Barrier Reef, offering a full day of guided snorkelling and reef education in comfort. The Falls to Paradise experience offers a tropical half-day escape to Cedar Creek Falls for an exploration and a swim, topped off with lunch at Northerlies Beach Bar.

Every Red Cat tour is powered by a passionate team and a dedication to delivering extraordinary marine adventures with heart.

Whitsunday Jetski Tours: Guided Reef Safaris
Ranked in TripAdvisor’s top 1% of Australian attractions—Whitsunday Jetski Tours is the ultimate thrill ride through island paradise.

After a safety briefing, guests ride Sea-Doo jet skis under the guidance of knowledgeable local instructors. The Airlie Adventure is ideal for beginners, offering a guided ride through sheltered bays, while the Two Island Safari ventures farther to explore the stunning Daydream and South Molle Islands.

Guests staying at Hayman Island can book the exclusive Jetski Safari, a high-speed journey through remote coves and colourful coral bommies where riders often spot turtles and tropical fish, adding wonder to the adventure.

Wildlife sightings and scenic coastal runs make every ride an unforgettable experience.

The Best of Queensland, Every Time You Travel
SeaLink Whitsundays’ trio of award-winning experiences—luxury beach escapes, high-speed reef tours and self-guided jetski safaris—offer something for every kind of traveller.

Whether you’re after calm sands, marine discovery or open-sea thrills, you’re guaranteed one thing: a Best of Queensland adventure you’ll never forget.

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The Thundercat is just one of the incredible adventures on offer in the Whitsundays. Photo sourced: Online

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Peninsula Airlie Beach is a private boutique accommodation complex nestled by the marina and it has been nominated for the prestigious Best of Queensland award, a recognition that comes as no surprise to the growing number of loyal guests who return year after year for its warm hospitality and peaceful charm.

Managed by a passionate husband-and-wife duo Francine and Paul Tuddenham who took over the business four years ago, the property has become known for its personal touches and consistently high-quality service. With no previous experience in management rights, the couple made a bold decision to move from the Gold Coast to take on a new lifestyle in North Queensland and they haven’t looked back.

“We’d never done anything like this before,” Francine said. “But we absolutely love it. It’s hard work, we’re on seven days a week but we thrive on it and you meet the most beautiful people.”

From the moment guests arrive, it’s clear Peninsula Airlie Beach is no ordinary holiday accommodation, but Francine and Paul say what they do is the basics.

“All we try to do is treat people how we want to be treated,” they said.

“From the get-go, customer service is important.

“We walk the guests over to the room, we check them in, we show them where they park the car, and show them how to work the television.”

Located within a secure, gated complex, the property caters to those seeking a peaceful and relaxing getaway. After initially experiencing some bookings for rowdy parties and bucks’ nights, the current managers have made it clear that kind of stay is no longer welcome. Now guests can enjoy a relaxing stay and enjoy sitting out on a balcony watching the marina or the ocean in peace. Located beside Coral Sea Marina and a short 1.5 kilometre walk from town ensures an even more peaceful stay, away from the hustle and bustle of Airlie Beach.

The couple also pride themselves on thoughtful details that elevate the guests experience. Each apartment ranges from two to four bedrooms and is fully self-contained with a full kitchen, laundry, and ensuite bathrooms. But it’s the extra touches that guests remember, quality dishwashing liquid and powder instead of budget sachets, Toblerone chocolates waiting in the fridge, and even a “kids’ corner” in the reception with small gifts and treats to help little ones feel welcome from the moment they check in.

“If you start off a holiday with happy kids, you're going to have a great holiday,” laughed Francine.

Most visitors come from Melbourne, Sydney, or Brisbane many escaping the southern chill and there’s been an uptick in international guests as well. A growing number of return visitors already booked in for next year before even finishing their current holiday.

Since taking over, the couple have also built strong partnerships with local tour operators and offer booking services for guests. Providing all visitors with a wonderful Whitsundays experience.

That dedication has already earned the property several industry accolades, including an Australian Resident Accommodation Managers Association (ARAMA) Award less than a year after they took over. Now, with a Best of Queensland nomination in hand, they’re proud to see their hard work and heart-felt service recognised.

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Francine and Paul Tuddenham are proud to be nominated for The Best of QLD. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Bowen came home with two prizes from the Queensland Day “All the Best” awards in Brisbane last week.

The awards were decided purely by public vote with the Big Mango being named the best “Big Thing” and Birds Fish bar coming home with the prize of “Best Fish and Chips”.

There were 15 categories including best beach, best pub, best burger, best meat pie, best beer and best landmark.

Bowen was the only regional town to win two awards and was well represented at the awards ceremony where Premier David Crisafulli announced the winners on Friday.

Bowen Wins Two Awards
In All The Best Program

The All the Best awards ceremony was broadcast across national television and radio with Olympic Hurdler Sally Pearson interviewing some of the winners on Sunrise on Channel 7.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said our Whitsunday community has always known Bowen is home to some of Queensland’s best and now the rest of the state knows it too!

“The Big Mango taking out ‘Best Big Thing’ and Birds Fish Bar winning ‘Best Fish and Chips’ is a huge win for our region and a well-deserved recognition of two true local icons,” he said.

“It doesn’t get much more Queensland than a giant mango and great fish and chips. These wins are a credit to the people behind both – the team at Birds and the Bowen Tourism and Business team that’s made the Big Mango a must-stop photo op.”

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said to have two awards from Bowen out of 15 categories was a magnificent achievement.

“Obviously, we were thrilled to have the iconic Big Mango win, but we also congratulate Birds Fish Bar for taking out the award for the best fish and chips,” said Leanne.

“The Big Mango’s win was a huge surprise because we knew we had been sitting at Number 2 on the leaderboard, behind the Big Pineapple, in the days leading up to the close of voting.

“We want to thank everyone who voted for the Big Mango, especially in those final couple of days.”

Chair of Bowen Tourism and Business, Jenn Honnery, said Bowen mangoes were superb, and that it was only fitting that our Big Mango won this award.

She paid tribute to the Bowen Tourism and Business team, a dedicated staff and volunteer group that continually promotes Bowen and the region.

The Big Mango was established in May 2002 and is a replica of the “Kensington Pride” variety of mango.

It is 10 metres high and is a favourite selfie spot for travellers.

The Bowen Visitor Information Centre next door attracts more than 52,000 visitors a year which equates to an average of more than 1,000 a week.

The Birds Fish Bar Manager and Director Chloe Bauer said the team at Birds are still buzzing with excitement with the news.

“Everyone's so excited, and we're so incredibly grateful for everyone who voted for us and supports us,” said Chloe.

“It's unreal and not only were we so excited for us at the fish bar, but for what this means to Bowen and the greater Whitsundays.”

Chloe believes their point of difference that won them the award is the authentic boat to plate experience that is available at Birds Fish Bar.

“My family are fishermen also. So, we catch our own seafood and what we don't catch, we can source directly off the boats at our back door,” she said.

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front page - Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business Leanne Abernethy, Birds Fish Bar Manager and Director Chloe Bauer, Chair of Bowen Tourism and Business Jenn Honnery, Queensland Premier David Crisafulli, and Sean Macdonald from Birds Fish Bar at the All the Best on Queensland Day. Photo supplied

Queensland Best Big Thing - The Big Mango in Bowen
Sean Macdonald from Birds Fish Bar, Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business Leanne Abernethy, Chair of Bowen Tourism and Business Jenn Honnery, and Birds Fish Bar Manager and Director Chloe Bauer.

Photos supplied

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