Community News

Local Kids Lead The Way!

Local Kids Lead The Way!

Kids Take Over TV Program Shows Mackay Through Young EyesMackay’s own backyard took centre stage this year, with ten enthusiastic young actors setting out to prove that adventure doesn’t have to come with a boarding pass.The group spent the month of July rediscovering the region’s family-friendly attractions, inviting the community to see familiar places in a new light.Experience Mackay Through Young EyesFrom the region’s art gallery and local libraries to live football, lush gardens and the Mackay Festival of Arts, the young presenters showcased the breadth of experiences available right across the Mackay region.Their experiences will launch to the public this week in the new season of Kids Take Over TV, which is a fun and inspiring online travel series where kids aged eight to 12 become the tour guides.This unique program showcases the best family-friendly destinations across Australia – through the eyes of young adventurers.Mayor Greg Williamson said the initiative was a wonderful reminder of the richness of Mackay’s community life.“Our young people have captured the spirit of Mackay beautifully – from our arts and culture to our sporting fields and green spaces,” Mayor Williamson said“It’s inspiring to see them enjoying these experiences and helping us to showcase them through a new lens,” he said.“It’s easy to be complacent when you live in a region for many years, but the beauty of having young people front and centre in this series is that their genuine excitement and joy is contagious.“It makes you really value what we have in our beautiful region and it also helps us to showcase our region to the rest of Australia in a fun, original way.”One of the young presenters, Archer Finch was blown away by the experience.“Being part of this series was like having a burst of excitement inside you!” Archer said.“I felt so important and it was so much fun,” he said.Mayor Williamson said the project was about more than just highlighting amazing regional experiences.“It gave these young stars the opportunity to build friendships outside of school, work together as a team and develop valuable skills in communication, presentation and performance,” he said.“It was a tremendous confidence boost for many of them, and I don’t doubt that we will see more of these young people on stage and screen in the years to come.”Kids Take Over TV episodes will feature Artspace Mackay, BB Print Stadium and the Mackay Cutters, The Mackay Region Botanic Gardens, DBCT Illuminate and Mackay Regional Council Libraries.Episodes will drop fortnightly on Mackay Regional Council’s Facebook page and Youtube during the school holidays and will feature young local presenters Harper Semple, Dustin Persson, Dexter Schembri, Millaa Ellis, Natalie Homewood, Isla Muir, Archer Finch, Jules Gaviglio, Ivy Gould, Madison Kennedy and Brayson Oldfield.‍Kids Take Over presenters from left, Natalie Homewood, Harper Semple, Ivy Gould, Isla Muir, Jules Gaviglio, Dustin Schembri, Archer Finch, Dexter Schembri and Brayson Oldfield, with Mayor Greg Williamson and videographer Matt Ferguson. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara‍

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Family Thanks Strangers For Help After Car Park Fall

Family Thanks Strangers For Help After Car Park Fall

A simple act of kindness has prompted a heartfelt message of gratitude from a local family, after a frightening fall at the Sydney Street Market car park reminded them just how powerful community spirit can be. The incident occurred when a local woman fell in the car park, leaving her vulnerable and in pain. Within moments, members of the public stepped in to help, offering calm support and practical assistance while waiting for emergency services to arrive. Strangers stayed with the woman and her husband until the ambulance arrived, ensuring they were not alone during a stressful and uncertain time. Water was brought to help keep them comfortable, and blankets were placed beneath the woman to protect her from the heat of the road as she waited for medical care. Her daughter later shared a message of thanks, saying the situation could have been far worse without the quick thinking and compassion of those who stopped to help. “Thank you to the wonderful people who helped my mum today at Sydney street market car park when she fell,” she said. “Without such wonderful people like those who helped her and dad, stayed with them until ambulance arrived, got water for them and blankets to put under my mum so road didn't burn her, she would have been worse off.” The woman has since returned home. While she is sore and bruised, she is safe and recovering – a result her family credits in no small part to the kindness shown by complete strangers. In a moment of distress, their care and compassion reflected the very best of the local community.

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Have A Chat With Hannah 19 December

Have A Chat With Hannah 19 December

Hi lovely readers, This is our second last edition of the year, and what a wonderful year it’s been. Next up is our special Christmas edition which is always a joy to read, so be sure to grab your copy. Last Sunday Adam and I were meant to celebrate our 1st wedding anniversary… although we both completely forgot until the day after (LOL). Life has been pretty busy lately, so it somehow missed our radar… but hey, that’s life sometimes! This past week, I spent a little time in hospital. It’s nothing too major, so please don’t worry about me. Adam always finds a way to make me laugh, even in the toughest moments, so it wasn’t all doom and gloom… and that’s one of the many things I love about him. While I missed home for a few days, I was incredibly well looked after by the wonderful staff, nurses and doctors at Mackay Base Hospital. Their care and kindness, especially during this busy Christmas period made my stay a positive one, and for that I'm so grateful! My prayers also go out to the victims and families affected by the recent attacks in Bondi, Sydney. Nobody deserves such harm, and my heart goes out to all who are grieving. May the peace of God comfort them in this difficult time. Scripture of the week: "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." – Philippians 4:6-7 NKJV

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Big Kicks, Big Builds

Big Kicks, Big Builds

Suns Deal Drives Regional Growth Council has locked in a major win for the region, confirming the extension of its successful partnership with the Gold Coast SUNS Football Club (GCFC) through to 2028. The announcement follows news of a half-billion-dollar investment in the Mackay region by Certainty Wealth, which includes the proposed development of 1,100 residential lots. Certainty Wealth Managing Director Damien Gwynne said the company’s decision to invest in Mackay was directly influenced by council’s partnership with the Gold Coast SUNS, highlighting the role the collaboration has played in strengthening the region’s profile and appeal. “In 2024 we were brought up by the Gold Coast SUNS on a business delegation to explore Mackay as a potential investment opportunity,” Mr Gwynne said. “We will invest more than half a billion dollars in the region over the next seven years – retirement villages, childcare, commercial centres – and that’s all because of that one business delegation,” he said. Within 13 months of the delegation, Certainty Wealth are 25 per cent of the way through constructing stage one of the Riverbend estate at Mirani near Platypus Beach. They have also settled on land at Sarina, which will be a master-planned community with more than 1000 dwellings called The Crossing. Mr Gwynne said The Crossing would change the face of Sarina. “It will include residential lots, townhouses, retirement village, childcare centre, retail centres, plus a whole bunch of community infrastructure that will assist the existing residents of Sarina,” he said. Mayor Greg Williamson said the new agreement reinforced council’s commitment to delivering economic, social and sporting benefits for the Mackay region. “Since 2019, the partnership has positioned Mackay as a premier destination for elite women’s sport, with annual AFLW matches at the Great Barrier Reef Arena attracting thousands of spectators and showcasing the region on a national stage,” Mayor Williamson said. “AFL participation in Mackay has grown by 15 per cent during this period, with female participation increasing by 20 per cent, highlighting the positive impact of the collaboration on grassroots sport,” he said. The renewed three-year agreement will see council continue as Official Partner of the Gold Coast SUNS and Official Gold Coast SUNS AFLW Destination Partner. Key deliverables of the extended partnership include: • Hosting one AFLW match annually at the Great Barrier Reef Arena. • National brand exposure through apparel branding and signage at AFLW and AFL matches. • The creation of Discover Mackay Week, showcasing the region through SUNS platforms and match-day activations. • Economic development opportunities via corporate networking events and boardroom lunches with SUNS partners. • Community engagement through AFLW player appearances, academy camps and grassroots football programs. • Consumer promotions such as the “Live the Dream” initiative, giving Mackay girls the chance to experience life as an AFLW player. • Leadership development sessions run by GCFC executives and high-performance staff. Gold Coast SUNS Deputy CEO Simon Fitzgibbon welcomed the extension which will see the relationship between the organisations span beyond a decade. “We are thrilled to extend our partnership with Mackay Regional Council. The council has been an influential supporter of our club, in particular our AFLW program, for almost a decade,” Fitzgibbon said.

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Key Solutions Group

Community Demands Clarity As Wind-farm Proposal Unfolds

November 27, 2025

One of the greatest strengths of our region is how deeply people care about where they live. When something has the potential to change our community, you speak up - and I value that more than anything. Over the past few weeks, many of you have reached out about the proposed Mt Challenger Windfarm, and it’s clear there are genuine concerns that deserve straight answers.

After speaking with locals who felt blindsided or left in the dark, I released a have your say survey through my website to gather your views. Nearly 400 of you took the time to respond - an extraordinary effort that shows just how strongly our community feels.

Last Saturday, around 100 residents joined me at the Kelsey Creek Hall to discuss your concerns face-to-face. I want to thank everyone who turned up, asked questions, and spoke honestly about the impact this proposal could have on your properties, your livelihoods, and your way of life. I made one commitment very clear: I will always listen to you, and I will always put the interests of our community first.

Under the Crisafulli Government, the process for assessing wind-farm projects has changed significantly. There is now a stricter and more transparent pathway, including mandatory community consultation, public submissions, and a clear requirement that proponents demonstrate genuine engagement - not just tick-a-box meetings. These rules exist because communities like ours deserve honesty, early information, and a fair say.

There has also been confusion about which wind-farm is which. To be clear: the Mt Challenger proposal is separate from the Proserpine wind-farm which location is closer to the dam and further west.

In the coming days, I will be meeting with the Deputy Premier to ensure your concerns are raised and that the proposer understands its responsibility to communicate properly. I will keep you updated every step of the way. Our community’s voice must be central in this process - and I intend to make sure it is.

Contributed with thanks to Amanda Camm MP

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Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival

November 27, 2025

Finalist At AusTriathlon Awards

Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival organisers and race directors Michael and Val Kimpton will head to the Gold Coast this weekend as they await the results for the AusTriathlon Event of the Year: Under 500 Participants winner.

The Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival was announced as a finalist last week and Michael and Val have been over the moon since.

"This is the goal I had three years ago when we started on our journey to kickstart our local triathlon festival," said Michael.

"We're just absolutely ecstatic, it's a dream come true.

"I said to the Management Committee during the week, that it was always my goal from day one to achieve the best we could.

"Val and I are so ambitious and we just wanted to put this triphot on the map, big time, and we've been able to achieve that."

The finalists are selected through a rigorous process, with each State Event of the Year winner automatically advancing, alongside additional nominations submitted through the public ballot or by AusTriathlon’s Executive and Awards Committee.

Securing a place as a National finalist is an exceptional achievement, given the high number of triathlon festivals across Australia.

"Being recognised as a National Finalist is a genuine recognition of the quality, impact and professionalism of the Event," said Michael.

"AusTriathlon deeply values the role our Event has played in the sport, providing athlete pathways and attracting visitors to our Region."

When Michael and Val attend on Saturday evening they are going in high spirits especially after their win at the AusTriathlon Queensland awards in 2023, where they won Club Initiative of the Year.

They won this award for reinvigorating the triathlon club and putting on a remarkable regional triathlon festival.

The Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival attracts professional triathletes from throughout Australia and it has the second highest prize pool for an Olympic distance event in Australia. The total of $16k is spread across the first five male and female professional athletes.

The date for the Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon 2026 is already set for the 24, 25 and 26 July.

Michael and Val Kimpton will head to the Gold Coast this weekend hoping to take a win. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Australian Air Force Cadets 110 Squadron

November 27, 2025

The Australian Air Force Cadets (AAFC) 110 Squadron in Bowen marked a significant milestone last week as they gathered for their Annual Inspection and Passing Out Parade.

Held under clear skies and a sense of quiet anticipation, the ceremony served as the squadron’s final parade for the year, a moment where discipline meets celebration. Cadets stood proudly in formation as family, friends and community members looked on, reflecting the hard work and commitment shown throughout the term.

Before the squadron was dismissed for the year, a series of awards were presented, recognising outstanding achievement, leadership and dedication among the cadets.

AAFC 110 Squadron awardees -
Dux of Initial Stage - Daniel Szollos
Dux of the Junior Stage - Rory Anderson
Intermediate Stage Cadet of the year - Tyler Woodfield
Senior Cadet of the year - Cooper Parry
Most Improved Cadet (Initial Stage) - Isaac Pisaniello
Most Improved Cadet (Junior Stage) - Oliver-James Crawford
Most Improved Cadet (Intermediate Stage) - Finley Hepburn
Most Improved Cadet (Senior Stage) - Archie Yuskan
Encouragement Award - Sam Galios
Attendance Award - Cooper Parry
Top Shot Award - Riley McAllister
Commanding Officers' Award - Cooper Parry and Riley McAllister
Special Acknowledgement - Zeke Flavel

The AAFC 110 Squadron in Bowen meet every Friday evening and cadets learn a variety of subjects including aviation, field and survival skills, leadership and personal development, drill and ceremonial, and service knowledge about the Air Force.

The AAFC 110 Squadron is currently accepting cadets for next year, cadets interested in joining can visit the barrack at 18 Livingstone St in Bowen.

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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International Survivors Of Suicide Loss Day

November 27, 2025

Recognised In Our Region

On Sunday the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network hosted a ceremony for International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day at Queens Beach in Bowen.

The event offers support to people affected by suicide and provides a space to honour lost loved ones. The communty came together to remember those lost and provide support to those in need.

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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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