Community News

Bluey Display Ignites Christmas Joy

Bluey Display Ignites Christmas Joy

By Sebastian Conidi Front Page Since 2015, cane farmer Caroline Lee and her family have been spreading festive cheer with their much-loved hay-bale displays at the corner of Telford Road and Gregory Cannon Valley Road. What began with a simple snowman has grown into a yearly tradition eagerly anticipated by the community. This Christmas, the family has unveiled a colourful new display featuring characters from the beloved TV show Bluey alongside Santa. Created by Caroline, her husband Michael and in-laws Laurie and Carmel, the display draws cars daily and brings smiles to all ages, spreading Christmas spirit across the Whitsundays. Local Farmers Build Popular Bluey Display for Christmas Since 2015, cane farmer Caroline Lee, with the support of her family, has been putting up fun hay-bale displays on the corner of Telford Rd and Gregory Cannon Valley Rd during the festive season to ignite Christmas joy. Initially beginning with a snowman, and followed by Santa's train the, ritual has continued every year thanks to its great popularity. "People would always ask: what are you doing next year?" said Caroline. This year sees an exciting new display of characters from the popular Australian kids show 'Bluey' along with Santa. "Bluey is just so popular, he's everywhere," shared Caroline when asked where the inspiration came from. The driving force behind the project involves a group effort with Caroline supported by her husband Michael and his parents Laurie and Carmel. "It's between 4 of us, it's not just 1!" she joked. "I'd be lost without them!" The family work together to craft the beautiful displays that have cars pulling over and people piling out, eager to capture special festive photos. The display has gone through various iterations over the years including a locust, a tinnie and a doctor and nurse during Covid. Displays also come up at different times of the year such as an Easter Bunny for Easter and Anzacs for Anzac Day. "It puts a smile on the kids faces!" expressed Caroline. "Everyday you look down there and there's cars pulling in all the time!" The Bluey display has clearly spread lots of happiness and will continue to do so through the festive season. A big thanks to Caroline and her family.

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Editor's Note 19 December

Editor's Note 19 December

Hello everyone, There are almost no words that can do justice to this week’s events, however, I feel it is my responsibility to contribute to the narrative in some small way. The massacre at Bondi has struck at the heart of our nation, making even the most patriotic among us feel disgust and horror at how this event symbolises the way our country is changing. How acts of hate are changing this country. In my opinion, however, what the terrorists did not realise when they chose to take 15 innocent lives on Sunday, is the power of humanity, the power of unity and the power of good, which far outweighs all hate. This belief, regardless of which God you worship, which church you attend, or which religion you adhere to, is shared by the vast majority people. In the aftermath of the atrocity, leaders from many faiths have come together, united in grief, united in prayer. You see, people find solace in uniting with love following moments of horror. So this devastating event, which has seen an outpouring of grief with the whole world watching, will, in my opinion, only make us stronger and show us the way forward as a country, together. This is illustrated poignantly by the fact that a Muslim fruit shop owner, who had gone out to meet a friend for coffee on Sunday, became the hero, risking his life to disarm a depraved man full of hate. As we head into Christmas, let’s keep those who were lost in this tragic event close to our hearts. But let’s also fight this act of hate with love, love for each other, love for life and love for God, whichever God that may be for you. Rach Quote of the Week: "We are all human beings first"

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Whitsundays Regional Council Announces Huge Sports Precinct

Whitsundays Regional Council Announces Huge Sports Precinct

The Whitsunday Regional Council has officially announced the adoption of the Whitsunday Regional Sports Precinct Masterplan. The 95-hectare site, located in the Proserpine to Airlie corridor, is set to become the Whitsundays’ regional sporting hub. The precinct will give local clubs room to grow, provide more opportunities for children to participate in sport, and create a venue capable of hosting major carnivals and events. Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the first stage is expected to deliver a combination of new fields, courts, shared amenities, and essential access upgrades including improvements to the Shute Harbour Road intersection to ensure safe and efficient entry to the precinct. “The long-term vision includes athletics, BMX, equestrian, indoor sport and even land set aside for a future school. With Brisbane 2032 getting closer every day, we’ve got an incredible opportunity to set up the Whitsundays as a training base and who knows, maybe even grow a few Olympians of our own,” he shared. Stage 1 is backed by a $15 million Federal Growing Regions grant, and it was developed by the community. “More than 40 local clubs rolled up their sleeves and helped shape what this precinct needs to be now and into the future,” said Mayor Collins. “Their ideas, feedback and passion are all over this plan, and I’m incredibly grateful for the time people put in.” With the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games approaching, this major project represents an exciting initiative that aims to attract athletes, sporting events and industry to the region. Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the region is growing quickly and we need this sporting space. “This plan opens the door for the Whitsundays to welcome athletes, events and new opportunities right here in our backyard. “It is about creating places where young people can dream big, where clubs can thrive and where the whole community benefits for generations to come.” The sports precinct is expected to create new opportunities across the Whitsundays, supporting a wide range of sports and strengthening the region’s athletic community while attracting visitors and investment. “This will be a generational project for the Whitsundays, creating new opportunities for sport, jobs and community life,” added Mayor Collins. “Big projects like this don’t happen overnight, but for the first time, we’ve got a clear, shared roadmap. Council will keep pushing hard for funding to bring each stage to life. “This precinct is about more than sport, it’s about giving our young people space to dream big, giving clubs room to thrive, and building something that will serve generations of Whitsunday families.”

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PJ and J’s Community Christmas Lunch

PJ and J’s Community Christmas Lunch

Ensuring No One Spends Christmas By Themselves Now in its third year, Paula Jean and Jan Clifford are busy organising their Community Christmas Lunch at the Airlie Beach Bowls Club on December 25th. Having found great success in the past, the lunch aims to bring people together during Christmas so that no one has to spend the festive season in isolation. “I just felt it was really sad that there were so many people who spent Christmas by themselves,” said Paula, prompting decisive community action to ensure people could find company if they were feeling isolated during the holidays. Drawing on her own experiences of being away from family at Christmas, Paula wanted to make sure others could feel included. Returning to the Airlie Beach Bowls Club, the event promises to continue fostering community spirit. Food and toys are donated so that everyone can enjoy a good meal and receive a present at Christmas. “The support from the community is amazing,” added Paula. “Food is my language of love, I’ll feed anyone!" She urges that anyone who would like to join is most welcome. She also encourages those who can to send in donations to help ensure the event can properly cater for everyone in need. “It’s the most beautiful feeling to do this.” For anyone who would like to join or get involved, you can email Paula at pjsfooddiary@outlook.com or visit the Facebook event page entitled “PJ and Jan’s Community Christmas Lunch.” Best of luck to Paula and Jan in organising an amazing occasion! WHEN: 25 December, Christmas Day, 10:30 am to 2:30 pm WHERE: Airlie Beach Bowls Club Sign Up: Facebook page or email pjsfooddiary@outlook.com

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Mackay Christian College

Back-To-Back Missions For BMA CQ Rescue

November 28, 2025

It was a busy weekend for BMA CQ Rescue, with seven calls for help received in just 48 hours. Saturday alone saw five missions, keeping crews in the air from before sunrise until well after dark.

The first call came just before 2am from Hamilton Island, where a man in his 20s required urgent care for a suspected snake bite. By 8:51am, the crew was airborne again, this time to Bowen to treat a patient with testicular torsion, who was flown to Mackay for further treatment.

A man in his 40s experiencing cardiac issues was the next patient, with the crew tasked to Proserpine so he could receive onboard medical care en route to Mackay.

At 2:40pm, the team flew to Hayman Island after a man in his 30s suffered heart problems, transporting him to the mainland for further observations.

The fifth mission came at 8:49pm when the night crew was sent to Collinsville to assist another man with cardiac issues.

On Sunday, the first tasking followed the activation of an EPIRB. The crew located two boaties whose battery had failed, leaving them without communication. Both were safe, and a radio was winched down so they could coordinate with Marine Rescue Queensland Mackay, who were on their way to help.

The final mission saw the team sent to Moranbah to assist a teenager suffering complications from diabetes. She was flown to Mackay in a stable condition.

BMA CQ Rescue General Manager Lisa Martin said the weekend was exceptionally busy, but exactly what the service is prepared for. “When our community calls, we answer.”


Rescue on Prudhoe Island. Photo supplied

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Christmas Raffle Upwards Of $5k In Prizes

November 27, 2025

The SSAA Bowen Branch have a started accepting gifts for their Christmas Raffle, so far the gifts have surpassed $5000 and will continue to grow.

President of SSAA Bowen Branch Marty Duggan said they will continue to accept raffle contribution prizes until the end of the month, and they can be dropped to Marty's store Hunting and Shooting Supplies Whitsunday at 27 Main St, Proserpine.

Marty said the current raffle consists of a chainsaw, toolbox, spotlights, a brewery kit, spray paint kit, rum, hats, stubby holders and more.

He also expressed his thanks to the businesses that contributed to the raffle prizes, he said he received overwelming support from other local businesses.

Tickets are $10 each or three for $20, and can be purchased either at the SSAA Bowen Branch or Hunting and Shooting Supplies Whitsunday.

Hunting and Shooting Supplies Whitsunday will also be particpating in this years Proserpine Christmas Market after last years success of selling over 200 tickets.

Last year the SSAA Bowen Branch raised $4,700 and were able to instal a disabled ramp into their facility, this year they are looking to ugrade their facilities including a new kitchen and meeting area.

The Raffle will be drawn on the 17th December at the Bowen Complex on Roddy Hughes Road at 5pm.

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Dingo Beach Gears Up For Mega Christmas Market

November 27, 2025

Dingo Beach is set to come alive with festive cheer when the annual Mega Christmas Market returns on Sunday, the 14th of December, from 8am to 12 noon. Hosted by the Dingo Beach Progress Association, the much-loved event promises a morning packed with entertainment, family fun, and Christmas spirit.

One of the highlights of the day will be the arrival of Santa and his elf, who are scheduled to roll in at 10am aboard a big yellow fire truck—a sight sure to delight children and adults alike. The festive atmosphere continues at 10:30am with a special performance of Christmas carols by the Proserpine Citizens Band, filling the foreshore with traditional tunes.

In the true spirit of giving, the Market will once again support the Wishing Tree Appeal, encouraging locals to donate gifts for children facing a tougher Christmas this year.

Visitors can also enjoy a fabulous Christmas BBQ, try their luck in the Christmas hams and seafood raffles, and treat the kids to a morning of free activities, including face painting by Emily, super train rides, and plenty of free treats.

With something for all ages, the Dingo Beach Mega Christmas Market is shaping up to be a must-visit event to kickstart the festive season and bring the community together.

What: Mega Christmas Market
When: Sunday, the 14th of December, from 8am to 12pm
Where: Dingo Beach

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Power of Attorney

November 27, 2025

Who’s making decisions if you can’t?

Life is unpredictable. A Power of Attorney gives someone you trust the legal authority to make decisions on your behalf if you’re unwell, away, or unable to manage things yourself.

It’s one of those documents people don’t think about, until they really need it. We’ll help you set it up properly and make sure it reflects your wishes.
Whitsunday Law – Helping you prepare for the "just in case."

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Experience Matters. Results Speak.

November 27, 2025

With over $1.5 billion in property sales and more than 40 years of combined experience across Hamilton Island and the Whitsundays, the Sotheby’s team—Wayne, Lynn, and Joe—offer an unmatched level of local knowledge, professionalism, and proven results.

Backed by the global prestige of Sotheby’s International Realty, we provide full-service coverage from both Hamilton Island and the mainland—ensuring no enquiry is missed and every opportunity is maximised.

We live and invest locally, and we’re committed to securing the best outcomes for our community.
Thinking of selling? Let’s talk.

Call us today to book your no-obligation appraisal. Wayne – 0416 024 168, Lynn – 0415 039 060, Joe – 0415 070 114

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Accountancy Plus Whitsunday

November 27, 2025

At APW, we make corporate registry and secretarial tasks simple—so you can focus on growing your business. Our services cover:
✅Company, Trust & Super Fund setup
✅Corporate register maintenance
✅Director, shareholder & unit holder changes
✅Address updates & meeting minutes
✅Annual review compliance
✅Business name registration

We also help you choose the right corporate structure to maximise tax benefits, minimise risk, and protect your assets.

✨Smart structures = smarter business

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Financial Freedom Or Costly Missteps? The Choice Is Yours.

November 27, 2025

In the age of DIY everything, it’s tempting to believe financial decisions can be made with a quick Google search and a dash of confidence. But when it comes to retirement planning, borrowing, wealth building, investing, or personal insurance, the stakes are far too high for guesswork.

Consider retirement. Many underestimate how market downturns can devastate a portfolio when you’re drawing income instead of contributing. History shows crashes like the GFC and COVID slump wiped out years of growth, forcing some to delay retirement by five years or more. Without a strategy—such as a “bucket approach” to protect income streams—you risk selling assets at rock-bottom prices just to fund living expenses.

Borrowing is another minefield. Overleveraging in today’s high-interest environment can turn a dream home or rental property into a financial nightmare. Debt taken on without a realistic, clear repayment plan often balloons out of control, leaving people shackled to obligations they can’t afford.

Then there’s insurance. Many assume their superannuation cover is “enough,” only to discover too late that it barely scratches the surface of their family’s needs. Calculating the right level of protection—whether lump sum or income replacement — requires a deep dive into personal circumstances, something generic advice simply can’t provide.

The truth is stark: households working with qualified financial planners consistently make better decisions, from managing risk to optimising tax strategies. They avoid costly mistakes like chasing returns, timing markets, or relying on bad online advice—errors that lead to unnecessary fees, financial anxiety, and delayed goals.

At Eclipse we’re happy to sit down with people for one or two initial meetings at no charge.  We’ll do that deep dive into where you’re at and what’s important to you and discuss the strategies and products that will help you get there.  Once we understand the scope of advice required, we’ll quote fees and you decide if you want to proceed to formal written advice and assistance with setting things up.

Financial planning isn’t about selling products; it’s about crafting a roadmap tailored to your life. Before you take that leap—whether it’s a big investment, a new loan, or planning for retirement—pause and seek expert guidance. It could be the smartest investment you ever make.

For a free consultation with local people who understand the complexities of these or any other financial matters, contact Eclipse Financial Planning at 4/1 Carlo Drive, Cannonvale on 49467359 today or visit www.eclipsefp.com.au

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Imposter Syndrome: It’s Everywhere in Your Org Chart!

November 27, 2025

Across every tier of management, Imposter Syndrome sits like a quiet assassin. Hate to say it, however, it doesn’t magically disappear as you climb higher; it just gets more creative. Executive Imposter Syndrome just has better vocabulary and access to better coffee.

At entry level, it shows up as the constant need to double-check every email, apologise for having an opinion, and they end up leading defensively.

At middle-management tier, Imposter Syndrome becomes a full-blown circus. These team-members are managing up, down, sideways, diagonally—tying themselves in knots while quietly thinking, “Any minute now, someone’s going to realise I’m winging 40% of this job.” They’re the ones showing up to meetings with coffee-fuelled enthusiasm masking mid-level panic.

At the executive level it can resemble a world of big titles, bigger responsibilities, and even bigger self-doubt. They look confident because they’ve mastered the art of saying things decisively. Their Imposter Syndrome is just better dressed, shakes hands firmly, and nods at strategy documents like it understands them. But it still whispers at 3am: “Hope no one notices you Googled half the words you used today.”

The truth? Imposter Syndrome is universal. If anything, the higher people climb, the lonelier it gets—and the less safe it feels to say, “I don’t know.”

Research suggests up to 82% of people in management experience Imposter Syndrome at some stage. The trick to managing Imposter Syndrome isn’t “being more confident”—it’s calling out your brain’s negative self-talk. Start by naming it when it shows up: “Ah yes, my internal troll has logged on.” Then reality-check your thoughts—evidence beats emotion every time. Stop comparing your behind-the-scenes to everyone else’s ‘highlight reel’ and ask for help when you need it. High performers aren’t the ones who know everything; they’re the ones who stay curious, learn out loud, and keep moving anyway. Imposter Syndrome doesn’t disappear—you just get better at not letting it drive the bus. Name it, Challenge it!

However, maybe the problem isn’t that people doubt themselves. Maybe the real problem is workplaces pretending everyone shouldn’t.

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Community Gathers For Inaugural Whitsunday Business Awards

November 28, 2025

The inaugural Whitsunday Business Awards brought a new sense ofexcitement and pride to the region last Friday night as theProserpine Entertainment Centre welcomed guests from every corner ofthe community. More than two hundred people filled the venue, comingtogether to recognise the achievements, innovation and resiliencethat define the Whitsundays business landscape.

The evening openedwith a warm, lively atmosphere supported by live music and theenergetic hosting of radio personality Meecham Philpott. Hosted bythe Whitsunday Regional Council, alongside the Whitsundays and BowenChambers of Commerce, the event drew strong backing from sponsorsincluding Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale Proserpine, BishoppOutdoor Advertising, Whitsunday Life Newspaper, Whitsunday Transitand a wide network of category sponsors and local suppliers whosecontributions helped bring the awards to life.

Judging was carriedout by an independent panel who assessed every submissionindividually and confidentially. Entries were measured against clearcriteria that focused on excellence, innovation, community impact anda commitment to business growth. This process ensured fairness andintegrity, resulting in a powerful showcase of the region’s risingtalent, community champions and industry leaders.

By the close of thenight, one message was clear. The first Whitsunday Business Awardshad achieved far more than simply recognising winners. It brought theregion together, celebrated local stories and strengthened the senseof pride shared across the business community.

WINNERS

Rising Star:Shontelle Betzel, Bowen Rail Company

Small Business Hero:EDGE Dance Studio Whitsunday

Customer ServiceExcellence: Magnums Accommodation Airlie Beach

Eco Excellence:Coral Sea Marina

Trailblazing YoungEntrepreneur: Sam Vanderpoel, Rolling with Netherpoel

Community Champion:Bowen Tourism and Business

Regional GameChanger: Whitsunday Life Newspaper

Business Leader ofthe Year: Kellee Fogg, Whitsunday Law

Business of theYear: Bowen Old People’s Home Society (Murroona Gardens)

Hall of Fame: AbbotPoint Operations

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Murroona Gardens Celebrates At Successful Business Awards

November 27, 2025

Murroona Gardens has capped off a standout year, claiming Business of the Year 2025 at the Whitsunday Business Awards, along with a Highly Commended in the Community Champion category.

General Manager and Director of Nursing, Megan Murray, said the recognition felt deeply personal to the whole organisation. She described the win as “an incredible honour” that reflects the everyday effort of staff, volunteers and families who form the Murroona Gardens community.

The Bowen aged care provider has been on a strong run in 2025, also taking out Medium Employer of the Year at both the North Queensland and Queensland Training Awards. It now heads into December as a top-three national finalist for the Australian Training Awards – Small Employer of the Year.

Megan attended Friday’s event with Executive Support Manager Sally Vico and Operations Manager Jodie Masunu. She said having them there mattered. “Having them beside me was very special. They represent the strength of our leadership team and the passion that drives the work we do every day."

What sets Murroona Gardens apart is its people-first approach and long-standing community ties. Megan said the organisation aims to be somewhere older residents feel safe, supported and genuinely valued, describing it as “more than a service. It is a family."

The organisation is also in a period of growth, with work underway on a new dementia small house community and expanded Support at Home services.

Megan thanked staff, the Board, volunteers and local families for their trust.

"This award belongs to Bowen. We are proud to serve our community and excited for what the future holds as we continue to build a stronger, kinder and more connected Murroona Gardens."

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Kellee Fogg Wins Business Leader

November 27, 2025

Whitsunday Law director Kellee Fogg has been named Business Leader of the Year, a recognition she describes as both humbling and energising for the entire firm.

The award adds to her earlier accolade of the Pride of Workmanship honour received in 2010, and marks a significant milestone in a career built on professionalism and strong community ties. Kellee said the achievement belongs to her whole team.

"On behalf of our team, I am honoured and absolutely thrilled to receive the Business Leader of the Year award, and I want to sincerely thank my incredible team for their unwavering support and dedication," she said.

Kellee attended Friday night’s presentation with her husband Paul and all but two staff members from Whitsunday Law, making the moment even more meaningful.

She believes the firm’s consistency is what set it apart from other nominees.

"Consistent high standards of service and communication are the key," she said.

"In this digital age, the art of speaking and communication feels like it is slowly disappearing when it may be required more than ever, especially with increases in scams."

Kellee hopes the region understands the breadth of services Whitsunday Law can offer, noting the team can assist clients statewide in property and commercial matters.

She thanked her staff, her husband Paul and the wider community for their support and trust.

Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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Big Mango Team Crowned Community Champions

November 27, 2025

The Bowen Tourism and Business team were very proud to win the “Community Champion” award at the 2025 Whitsunday Business awards.

The award was accepted on the night by three team members – Leanne Abernethy, Glenn Womal and Cindy Tonks.

This not-for-profit organisation operates the Bowen Visitor Information Centre next to the Big Mango at Bowen and the information booth at Bowen’s Front Beach.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said the team were very honoured to be named community champions.

“We provide information, maps and brochures about the entire region, we promote the region in our marketing, and we stock a lot of local and regional produce,” she said.

“We are very proud to refer our visitors to attractions and businesses right throughout the region and to showcase our region’s produce by selling so many local products.

“Our belief that tourism is everybody’s business means non-tourism businesses have the opportunity to benefit from the work of our organisation.

“We are supported by 20 volunteers who go above and beyond to ensure everyone is made welcome when they come to our Visitor Information Centres."

Leanne thanked the committee for being so supportive and the Whitsunday Regional Council for their help with funding support.

The Bowen Visitor Information Centre welcomed a record number of visitors in the past financial year and have broken records again in the first quarter of the current financial year.

Leanne Abernethy, Cindy Tonks and Glenn Womal. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Small Business Hero

November 27, 2025

Edge Dance Studio Whitsunday

Edge Dance Studio Whitsunday owner Emma Whybird is celebrating after being named Small Business Hero at this year’s Whitsunday Business Awards a moment she says reflects the heart and hard work behind the studio.

Emma said the recognition means a great deal to the entire EDGE community.

"We are thrilled and honoured to have won this award. Being recognised within our community means so much to us," Emma said.

"Every day, we pour our hearts into creating a joyful, inclusive, and fun space for children and families. This award is a beautiful reminder of the impact that our work is having. "

Ten members of the EDGE family joined her at Friday night’s ceremony, making the win all the more meaningful. "They are at the core of our studio. They are the ones who lift our students, support our families, and help create the magic that happens inside our walls every day."

Emma believes the studio’s balance of professional training and a warm, family-focused environment helped them stand out. The business has grown strongly in recent years, expanding its programs, performance opportunities and community involvement.

She says many people don’t realise how broad the studio’s offerings are, from preschool dance and exam work to drama classes, community events and large productions.

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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CEO Of Corrsafe Enterprises Garry Matthias

November 27, 2025

Highly Commended Business Leader of the Year,

Corrsafe Enterprises CEO Garry Matthias has been recognised as Highly Commended Business Leader of the Year, marking his first major accolade and a proud milestone for the Bowen-based company.

Garry said the acknowledgment reflects the work ethic and values the Corrsafe team brings to the region’s industries each day.

"We’re a Bowen-born business with old-school values and a forward-focused mindset, and to have that commitment acknowledged by the Whitsunday community means more than words can say," he said.

"This recognition fuels us to keep delivering safer worksites, stronger training outcomes and real value for the industries we serve.”

Gary attended the awards night with his wife Rebecca, parents Gail and Gerhard, son Matthew, and staff members Alison and Jemma. Sharing the moment, he said, turned the honour into a collective win.

"When my name was read out, it wasn’t just ‘Garry’ being recognised - it was the years of effort, sacrifice and commitment from the people who stand beside me."

Garry credits Corrsafe’s long-standing reputation, regional roots and commitment to genuine safety outcomes as key reasons the business stood out.

He thanked his team, industry partners and family for their support, adding that “This recognition isn’t a finish line; it’s fuel" as the company continues its mission to help local workers get home safely every day.

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Coral Sea Marina Showcases Eco Excellence

November 27, 2025

Coral Sea Marina has added another accolade to its name, taking out the inaugural Eco Excellence award at the 2025 Whitsunday Business Awards. An award the team says reflects years of steady, everyday commitment to operating sustainably.

While the marina is no stranger to awards, this is the first time it has been honoured specifically for its environmental leadership.

CEO Kate Purdie attended the ceremony and said the achievement marks an important moment for the business.

“Environmental stewardship is a cornerstone of our Coral Sea Marina vision," she said.

"We continuously aim to connect people to boating and to experiencing, appreciating and preserving the natural assets that surround us.

"Being recognised with this inaugural 2025 Whitsunday Business Eco Excellence award is a very proud moment for our team."

The marina’s submission showcased the collective steps taken daily to minimise impact across the region’s largest boating precinct. With hundreds of thousands of visitors moving through the site each year, the marina sees its role as both an operator and an educator, helping influence positive environmental behaviour within the boating community.

Coral Sea Marina holds Clean Marina Level III and Fish Friendly accreditation, and in 2024 became the first marina in Australia to achieve Sustainable Tourism Certification.

Th Coral Sea marina team the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce, Bowen Chamber of Commerce and the Whitsunday Regional Council.

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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