
Three artificial intelligence (AI) initiatives are part of council's new budget to be adopted next week. These initiatives are the latest proactive steps from council to help mitigate significant financial pressures while continuing to deliver reliable, high-quality services to the community. Mayor Greg Williamson said the 2026/27 Budget reflected both the challenges facing local government and council’s commitment to modern, efficient service delivery. “Like many councils across the country, we are facing rising costs and reduced external funding,” he said. “Our focus is on finding smarter, more sustainable ways to deliver services without compromising quality for our community.” Council has seen a startling increase in a costs over recent years, including: An additional $665,000 increase in waste service costs due to reduced Queensland Government Waste Levy Subsidy and higher levy fees. A $1.1 million increase in waste expenses in the previous budget. A $5.92 million rise in depreciation costs this year alone. A $6 million shortfall from decreased Federal Assistance Grants in this budget contributing to a total reduction of more than $27 million in Financial Assistance Grants funding since 2016. An estimated $3 million annual increase in fuel costs. These pressures highlight the ongoing challenge of balancing affordability for residents with the real cost of delivering essential services. To help offset these impacts, council is investing in practical, targeted AI solutions that improve efficiency and reduce operating costs. A key initiative is the introduction of a new after-hours digital assistant, LUNA, which will operate from 4.30pm to 8.30am daily and all weekend from July 1. Replacing a previous afterhours model which used an outsourced, third-party call centre, LUNA will provide consistent, auditable responses using council-approved information. It will improve how afterhours calls are triaged, especially urgent and emergency enquiries, and will allow routine requests to be handled without delays or manual intervention. The transition follows changes in the external provider market and is expected to deliver about $80,000 in annual savings, while maintaining service quality and improving response consistency. Mayor Williamson said this initiative demonstrated council’s commitment to innovation while managing costs. “We’re using proven technology to deliver services more efficiently while maintaining the high standard our community expects,” Mayor Williamson said. Council is also expanding AI use in key service areas to address increasing demand and resource constraints. In Development Planning, automation of high-volume, low-complexity administrative tasks will reduce processing backlogs and allow skilled staff to focus on more complex work. A similar outcome will be achieved by using Agentic AI to enhance internal corporate services, allowing council’s staff to tackle more complex issues. This will help council maintain service levels despite workforce and cost pressures. Mayor Williamson said council was adopting a scalable approach to AI, building on existing systems to deliver improvements across multiple service areas rather than one-off solutions. “This approach ensures responsible and sustainable adoption of new technologies,” he said. “By reducing repetitive manual work and improving consistency, we can better manage costs while maintaining strong governance and oversight.” While efficiencies from these initiatives will be realised progressively, council’s immediate focus is on improving reliability, reducing inefficiencies and supporting a sustainable workforce model. These actions form part of council’s broader commitment to ensuring services remain efficient, accountable and future-ready, even as financial pressures continue to grow. Mayor Williamson said innovation would be key to navigating future challenges. “Innovation is essential to navigating the challenges ahead. By investing in smarter ways of working now, we are helping protect the services our community relies on into the future while putting downward pressure on rate rises.” Photo source: Mackay Regional Council
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Set on the elevated hillside of this 21-acre property, the beautifully crafted, fully airconditioned residence enjoys a breathtaking north-facing 27m x 4.2m covered deck, offering ample room for entertaining or peaceful contemplation while taking in the stunning ever-changing vista. A large covered tiled patio adjoins the deck and living area, creating additional outdoor space overlooking the firepit and orchard. The Property At A Glance Spacious open plan living, dining and kitchen area with central fireplace, opening onto two stunning outdoor spaces Modern galley-style kitchen with stone benchtops, induction cooktop, rangehood, pyrolytic self-cleaning oven and dishwasher Media room with projector, with potential to serve as a fourth bedroom Three generous airconditioned bedrooms, including the master suite with walk-in robe and ensuite Modern family bathroom with shower over bath and separate toilet Laundry with excellent storage and external access Airconditioning and ceiling fans throughout North-facing covered hardwood deck, measuring 27m x 4.2m, with stunning views West-facing 9.5m x 6.5m tiled patio overlooking the firepit and plentiful orchard The home is set within a fully fenced house yard, complete with a secure electric front gate at the road. There is an abundance of water across the property, including four dams, a bore with solar-operated submersible pump (not currently connected), three rainwater tanks with a combined capacity of 62,000L, and town water to the residence. Water is also plumbed to the orchard, stables and other areas throughout the property. Additional features include fully covered walkways connecting the carport to the home, wireless NBN and full mobile signal coverage. Infrastructure And Improvements 7m x 7m carport with electric roller door at the home 14m x 7m high-clearance shed with four roller doors and service trench Adjoining 12m x 6m tool shed Stables and pig pens A lush and abundant orchard with avocados, citrus and tropical fruits, along with a well-established beehive Optional machinery includes a Fiat 750 tractor with slasher and rotary hoe, 2000 SE5 backhoe, Hustler 54" zero turn ride-on mower, assorted tools and other plant and equipment. This stunning property is a true gem in the heart of the beautiful Pioneer Valley, offering the opportunity to settle in, relax and enjoy, or get creative and explore the endless possibilities on offer. Gargett is located in the Pioneer Valley, just 15 minutes from the Finch Hatton Mountain Bike Trail and the beautiful Finch Hatton Gorge. The local Gargett Store is only a short drive away, while the nearest shopping centre is 20 minutes to Marian and 50 minutes to Mackay. It is also an easy drive to the Bowen Coal Basin, Airlie Beach and The Whitsundays, with ample opportunities nearby for fishing, crabbing, prawning and boating. Rates: Approx. $1660 per half year Zoning: Rural Price: $1.6M Block Size: 8.88 hectares (21.75 acres) Builder: Brad Kirkpatrick, 2015
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Makinex Renewables is setting an ambitious target, saving 100 million litres of diesel in five years. In an industry long reliant on traditional diesel generators, the Australian-made and owned company is helping reshape how remote and off-grid operations power their sites. Focused on Hybrid Power Systems, Battery Energy Storage Systems and deployable solar arrays, Makinex Renewables is working with customers to lower fuel costs, reduce emissions and improve operational efficiency, while maintaining the dependable power their operations require. “The 100 million litre target gives us a clear and measurable objective to work towards while highlighting the impact renewable energy solutions can have across industries that traditionally rely on diesel power,” the company said. “It’s a goal that keeps us focused on developing practical solutions that deliver real-world results for our customers.” Designed for businesses operating in remote environments, Makinex Renewables’ modular systems can be deployed as standalone units, integrated together, or incorporated into existing site power setups. The company’s solutions are already delivering measurable results in mining. Following a trial installation, a mine site adopted Makinex Renewables’ Hybrid Power System and additional solar arrays, reducing generator runtime from 24 hours a day to approximately six to seven hours. Since the HPS45 was deployed in February, the site has cut generator fuel use by 125 litres a day, delivering annual diesel savings of around $91,000 and projected savings of $640,000 over the site’s seven-year life. Brad Cliff, Director of Generator Services Australia, said the project highlighted the benefits of continuing to challenge traditional ways of thinking and finding better solutions to longstanding industry challenges. To learn more about Makinex Renewables’ solutions, visit the team at the Queensland Mining and Engineering Exhibition in July.
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Most Reverend Daniel Meagher, the 11th Bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Rockhampton, made his first visit to St Patrick's College on Wednesday, beginning the day alongside students and staff at the College's Brekky Van outreach service. The visit provided an opportunity for Bishop Daniel to experience the College's commitment to living its Catholic values through service to the wider community before officiating the blessing and official opening of newly completed building and refurbishment works. During the ceremony, Bishop Daniel addressed those in attendance. “We really are here to pray and bless the students and teachers who will use the buildings,” he said. The redevelopment has delivered contemporary learning spaces designed to support learning, wellbeing and faith formation while reflecting the College's commitment to providing high-quality educational opportunities. Assistant Principal: Mission, Mrs Andrea Crocker, said the occasion was a proud moment for the College community. “We’re finally getting to showcase our wonderful new facilities and the way the hard work of so many different people has come to fruition,” she said. The blessing and opening marked the culmination of years of planning and investment, with the new facilities set to benefit Mercy Campus students for years to come. Photo supplied
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Still overcome with gratitude, former Bowen local Lynn has decided to leave a lasting legacy to thank the hospital that saved her son’s life more than four decades ago.
Lynn and her husband George’s journey into parenthood was marked with heartbreak, having lost two babies to stillbirth. In August of 1979, they welcomed their third child, Mark, born five weeks premature and facing overwhelming odds. He entered the world with a rare combination of conditions – H-type fistula, hare lip and cleft palate – with survival chances estimated at over 30 million to one.
Within hours, Mark was rushed to the Prince of Wales Children’s Hospital Intensive Care Unit in Sydney, suffering severe respiratory distress. Doctors feared he wouldn’t survive and advised the family to consider an immediate baptism.
At just eight days old, Mark underwent his first surgery, followed by another just weeks later. The months ahead were fraught with complications – a collapsed lung, blocked airways, seizures and multiple resuscitations. Feeding was particularly difficult, and Mark required a gastrostomy tube and intravenous support.
Through each challenge, Lynn spent countless hours at her baby’s side, learning how to care for his fragile body. At four months old, surgeons repaired his lip and part of his palate, before further operations followed in his early years, including another cleft palate repair. With immense perseverance and care, Mark eventually began eating without assistance – a milestone Lynn describes as nothing short of miraculous.
Now, decades later, Lynn calls Mark her “miracle baby” and is ensuring her gratitude lives on. She has chosen to leave a gift in her will to Sydney Children’s Hospital, honouring the medical team who gave her family hope during their darkest days.
Lynn is sharing her story in support of the Fundraising Institute Australia’s Include a Charity Week from 1st to the 7th of September, which encourages Australians to leave a gift in their wills to causes close to their hearts.
Lynn has decided to leave a charitable gift in her will to Sydney Children's Hospital, who saved Mark’s life (Photo Supplied)
Mark’s survival odds were 30 million to 1 but he made it home (Photo Supplied)

The Bowen Visitor Information Centre has been officially recognised as the best in its category, taking out “Visitor Information Centre of the Year” at the Queensland Information Centre’s Association (QICA) Awards.
Three team members of Bowen Tourism and Business attended the annual QICA conference in Moreton Bay last week.
Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy, paid tribute to the entire team of staff, volunteers and committee.
She also thanked Whitsunday Regional Council for their support.
The Bowen Visitor Information Centre welcomed more than 56,000 visitors in the 2024/25 financial year – an average of 1083 per week.
“We were thrilled to accept this award on behalf of Bowen and the entire Whitsundays region. Most importantly, we thank our incredible team of volunteers, who are passionate, dedicated and always welcoming,” she said.
Chair of Bowen Tourism and Business, Jenn Honnery, said the recognition reflected the team’s commitment to providing outstanding customer service.
“They welcomed a record number of visitors in the past financial year – more than nine percent higher than the year before.
“This achievement shows the lasting value of face-to-face service, where a warm welcome, local knowledge, and personal connection make all the difference to a visitor’s experience.
“This award is recognition of the outstanding efforts and expertise of our entire team of staff and volunteers.”
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor, Ry Collins, described the award as a wonderful acknowledgment of the dedicated team behind the Bowen Visitor Information Centre.
"This win is all about the incredible staff and volunteers who go above and beyond every single day, and it’s their hard work and dedication that has put Bowen on the map as one of Queensland’s best visitor destinations,” Mayor Collins said.
“They are the friendly faces who greet our visitors, share their knowledge, and make sure everyone feels welcome. Their passion and pride for Bowen and the Whitsundays shines through in everything they do.
"From its stunning beaches to its rich history and vibrant community, Bowen really is a jewel of the Whitsundays.”
Tourism Whitsundays CEO, Tim Booth, also congratulated the Bowen team.
“A huge congratulations to Bowen on being named Visitor Information Centre of the Year. We’re so lucky to have such a welcoming and dedicated VIC as part of the Whitsundays region, and this award is well-deserved recognition of the passion and pride the Bowen team puts into showcasing our beautiful part of the world.”
Chairperson of the Bowen Chamber of Commerce, Jo Shepherd, echoed the praise, recognising the centre’s vital role in supporting the local economy.
“This award highlights the dedication of the Bowen Visitor Information Centre team in promoting our region and strengthening the business community we proudly represent.”
2025 QICA Award Winners
• VIC of the Year (Regional Tourism Organisation) – Glass House Mountains
• VIC of the Year (Local Tourism Organisation) – Bowen
• VIC of the Year (run entirely by volunteers) – Tewantin

Bowen State School marked a major milestone on Saturday, celebrating its 160th birthday with a day full of pride, nostalgia, and community spirit. The event attracted a large crowd of past and present students, families, and staff, all gathering to honour the school’s rich history.
Among the special guests was Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox, a proud past student of the school. He was invited to lead the roll call, reading out the names of past students by decade from the 1930s to the present—an honour that connected generations of Bowen alumni.
One of the day’s most touching moments came during the cake-cutting ceremony. The school’s oldest known past student, Mrs Rogers—who also returned as a long-serving teacher—joined the two youngest current students to cut the commemorative cake.
A vibrant fair ran alongside the official proceedings, and the school hall featured an impressive memorabilia display, showcasing the school's legacy through photographs and artefacts.
The event was a fitting tribute to one of Queensland’s oldest schools and a celebration of its enduring place in the community.

Fennell’s Floorworld has been recognised on the national stage, taking out the prestigious Rising Star Award at the National Flooring World Conference Awards Night held in Brisbane last Thursday.
Scott Fennell owner of Fennell’s Floorworld has been in the flooring industry for 40 years.
The award, which cannot be entered but is instead selected from among Floorworld head office following a strict criteria, came as a huge surprise to the Cannonvale and Bowen based business.
“We were jumping out of our skin when our name was called,” said Accounts Manager Natasha Saroglia. “It’s such an honour because it’s not something you apply for – you’re chosen, which makes it even more special.”
It was the first time Fennell’s Floorworld had been nominated at the national level, with the business also shortlisted for Queensland Store of the Year.
The Rising Star recognition comes off the back of significant growth for the business in recent years. Originally operating out of Cannonvale, Fennell’s has expanded its footprint with a store in Bowen, established to better service customers in the growing Whitsunday region.
The growth Fennell experienced not only saw them expand to new a location but also grow in terms of productivity.
“We were travelling to Bowen so often with our staff that it just made sense to open a permanent store there,” Natasha explained.
“It allows us to provide a more convenient service for local customers.”
The expansion has been matched by diversification in products and services. While the company has long been known for its flooring expertise, offering engineered timber, hybrid, laminate, carpet and vinyl planks it has recently added window furnishings to its range.
“In the last couple of months, we’ve introduced blinds and curtains, which has been really exciting,” Natasha said.
This provides customers with the option to finish their interiors with more than just flooring.
Fennell’s offers both supply-only and supply-and-install options, working with a team of full-time and subcontracted installers to ensure flexibility for customers.
“Some people want to do it themselves, while others prefer the full service, so we cater to both,” said Natasha.
Looking ahead, the team is focusing on building on its reputation for quality service and strong customer relationships rather than chasing rapid expansion.
“We’ve grown a lot over the past four years, but now it’s about perfecting what we do,” Natasha said.
“Our customers are at the centre of everything, and this award shows that the hard work is paying off.”
The Rising Star Award has cemented Fennell’s Floor world as a business on the rise, recognised not only in the Whitsundays but now across Australia.
The winning team at Fennell's Floorworld. Photo supplied

The first Europeans to settle in the Lower Conway area were the Wilson family - Fred in 1905 and his wife, Catherine, and children, Beatrice and Fred, in 1908. A pioneer to the Saltwater Creek area, Fred had previously travelled around Queensland finding employment as a shearer, a drover, and a farm hand. The Wilson family cleared the land and initially concentrated on growing bananas. In 1913, they sent their first sugar cane to the mill as the tramline had, by then, been extended to the Conway / Preston area.
Wilson Beach was once referred to as Little Beach and Conway as Big Beach but when subdivision and development took place in the area, official names were proposed. Hence, we now have Wilson Beach and Conway Beach. (Conway Beach was originally known as Preston Beach).
Circa 1911, the local families, the “Prestonites”, held a picnic at the mouth of the Proserpine River. In those times, access to Little Beach was by boat from Saltwater Creek to the mouth of the river and then by foot along the beach or by using the rough track cut out by the farmers using hand axes, mattocks, horses and plenty of blood, sweat and tears.
In 1942, Harry and Ruby Davison owned the area now known as Wilson Beach. They had built their family home on the beach front and there they raised nine children. Sadly, the house had to be demolished after Cyclone Debbie, however, their name lives on in Davison Road. Hall Drive is named after another early settler, Arthur Hall, whose house was along the beach from Davison’s.
The “Proserpine Guardian” January 13, 1961 reported, “Master Beames, from Brisbane, is visiting Little Beach during the Christmas vacation as a guest of the Davison family. Other visitors during the holidays included Mr and Mrs E Grimstone and Lyn, Miss G Carne, Mr and Mrs C. Hiscox and family, Mr and Mrs J. Jackson and M. King and family from Mackay who were camped on the beach. The road, now bitumened, is quite good, although the sides are very soft and cars are apt to skid or sink down when passing or overtaking.”
In the late 1950s, local residents and the visiting holiday makers had expressed that a swimming enclosure was needed, as there was no safe place for the children to swim. There were stingers in the sea and the water flow at Cedar Creek falls was unreliable. So, many locals hand cut posts from the bush and the wire was donated. The community kept the enclosure in good repair. Each year, the wire was replaced before the start of the stinger season. And before the tide came in, the enclosure was always checked to make sure there was nothing dangerous trapped in there. Damage to the enclosure from Cyclone Debbie made the enclosure unusable however it has recently been rebuilt by the council.
Wilson Beach has grown into a beautiful, peaceful, secluded seaside settlement with magnificent sunsets: a place where families love to spend holidays. The community should be proud of the strong community spirit which has been passed down through the generations since the days of the early settlers.
Story and photo courtesy of Proserpine Historical Museum

What a month it's been for The Whitsundays! August delivered a packed calendar that brought our region alive with visitors and competitors from across Australia.
The action kicked off with the 74 Islands Distillery Airlie Beach Race Week from 7-14 August. For six days, colourful sails dotted our waters while Airlie Beach buzzed with evening entertainment.
Athletes then took centre stage at the Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival on 17 August. The popular North Queensland event saw competitors of all ages tackle the challenging course against our stunning coastal backdrop.
August's finale was the milestone 40th Hamilton Island Race Week, presented by American Express, from 19-23 August. This special anniversary year combined world-class sailing with the exciting Trans-Tasman 49ers Exhibition Series, offering locals and visitors a taste of Olympic-level competition ahead of Brisbane 2032.
Local tourism operators experienced strong visitor numbers throughout the month, with hotels, restaurants and tour operators all benefiting from the busy schedule. The successful run of events proves once again that our region can handle major competitions while showcasing everything The Whitsundays has to offer.
From racing yachts to finish-line celebrations, August reminded everyone why The Whitsundays remains one of Australia's most sought-after destinations.
Contributed with thanks to Tourism Whitsundays
Airlie Beach Race Week drew in a huge crowd. Photo credit: Andrea Francolini

Time is running out to apply for the Whitsunday Business Awards 2025, the region’s premier celebration of business excellence. Applications close 11:59pm, Sunday 7 September 2025 – don’t miss your chance to be recognised.
The Awards celebrate outstanding achievements, leadership, innovation, and resilience across the Whitsunday business community.
A collaboration between the Bowen Chamber of Commerce, the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Whitsunday Regional Council, the program is judged by respected regional experts.
Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine is proud to come onboard as this year’s Principal Partner.
“Local businesses are at the heart of our community. They support families, employ locals, and make the Whitsundays an even better place to live and work. We’re proud to partner with the 2025 Whitsunday Business Awards because celebrating business excellence is about celebrating the future of our region” said Mark Henry, Chair of Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine.
One of the flagship categories, the Regional Game Changer Award, recognises businesses fuelling economic growth, innovation, and community prosperity.
TAFE Queensland will present the Trailblazing Young Entrepreneur Award, celebrating rising stars under 25.
"Working alongside industry and Queensland communities is at the heart of everything we do at TAFE Queensland," said Susan Kinobe, TAFE Queensland North General Manager. “Sponsoring this award is a chance to celebrate local business excellence and the young leaders shaping the future of the Whitsunday region.”
The Small Business Hero Award recognises sole traders and small businesses making a big impact through ambition, innovation, and resilience.
Finally, the Community Champion Award, sponsored by the Rotary Club of Airlie Beach, celebrates businesses that give back to the community.
"This award reflects Rotary’s dedication to community service, finding ways to improve the quality of life for people in their communities and to serve the public interest. It aligns with the commitment of members to use their professional skills and expertise to serve the community, promote ethical practices, and inspire others," the Club said.
Don’t miss this opportunity to put your business in the spotlight.
Visit the Award website: https://bit.ly/whitsundayba
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Reliable roads and bridges are the backbone of our regional economy. They keep our cane farmers, graziers and local residents connected, and ensure produce, livestock and equipment can move when and where they need to.
In recent years, weight restrictions on Kelsey Creek Bridges 2 and 3 have made life more complicated for those who depend on them most. For primary producers, especially during the busy sugar crushing season, these restrictions have meant longer trips and more logistical challenges when moving heavy vehicles, machinery and goods.
That’s why I’m very pleased to share that this project has now been prioritised, and funding is secured to deliver a long-term solution. Council has successfully secured more than $4.5 million through the Australian Government’s Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program, which will cover 80 per cent of the $5.6 million project cost.
On top of this, Council has committed further funding through the Transport Infrastructure Development Scheme to enable heavy vehicle bypasses to be fast-tracked while the permanent replacements are designed and constructed.
These bypasses will provide bed level crossings in waterways to comply with fisheries requirements and be built to a dry-weather standard and will immediately ease pressure on farmers and transport operators by creating alternate access for heavy vehicles. Officers are still to determine the ultimate alignment for the new bridges and detour options for all vehicles during construction.
I want to acknowledge the strong advocacy of Divisional Councillors John Collins and Gary Simpson, who have worked tirelessly to ensure this project was elevated as a priority. Both Councillors have been strong voices for their communities and have pushed hard to make sure local farmers, graziers and residents get the infrastructure they need. Their commitment has played a key role in helping Council secure the funding and drive this project forward.
This project simply would not have been possible without the support of the Australian Federal Government. Their recognition of the importance of this investment and willingness to commit significant funding has made it possible for Council to get on with the job. On behalf of our community, I sincerely thank the Federal Government for backing the Whitsundays and our rural industries.
I also want to thank local landholders for working with Council officers to help identify practical bypass options. Their recent cooperation and input have been invaluable in making sure we can move quickly and effectively.
Council’s focus is now on delivery. By prioritising this project and empowering our officers to take the necessary steps, we’re making sure the solutions are implemented as soon as possible.
This project will bring real benefits to our rural industries and communities, not just for today but for decades to come. It’s a clear sign of our commitment to practical infrastructure that supports the people who drive our local economy.

September is Rural Road Safety Month, a timely reminder to take extra care on our rural roads. Almost two in every three road deaths occur on rural roads, where long distances, isolation and tough conditions increase the risks. Every trip matters, whether it’s to work, school, or visiting loved ones. By slowing down, staying alert and driving with care, we can all help prevent tragedy and keep our community safe.
Find out more at the Australian Road Safety Foundation’s website: www.arsf.com.au/rural-road-safety-month

The spectacular Whitsunday venue Elementa Whitsundays has been honoured with a prestigious award for Tourism and Leisure Facilities at the Master Builders Mackay and Whitsunday Housing & Construction Awards. It has cemented the venue as one of Airlie Beach’s most exciting destinations for visitors and locals alike.
The award recognises the vision and dedication behind the hilltop development overlooking the Coral Sea, a project that began as a bold idea more than a decade ago and has since grown into a landmark attraction.
Glenn Hitch said the award was a testament to the craftsmanship and teamwork of all involved in bringing the project to life.
Although the vision was clear from the outset, turning it into reality required persistence and collaboration.
“The challenge was getting the idea in my head to be just as clear for everyone else,” Glenn explained. “But I had a lot of help and input from other people. It wasn’t just me, it was a real team effort.”
Among those acknowledged were Cumberland Homes as the principal contractor, along with Gangemi Cabinet Makers, Coastal Brush Painters, Holly Gardner Interior Design, Adfab Industries, Shellco, Andy Manners, and George and Bare Tiling. Each played a role in shaping the award-winning venue into what it is today.
The development first began in 2006 with the purchase of the land, which sat untouched for a decade before the first stage of accommodation was built in 2017.
From the beginning, the goal was to create more than just a place to stay; it was about building something that would be a primary reason for visitors to choose Airlie Beach for weddings, corporate events, and unique Whitsunday experiences.
“We're really proud to win this award, because this is what this building is for, it’s to bring tourists into the town, and that's what it's about,” exclaimed Glenn.
“We're not bringing Melbourne or Sydney to Airlie Beach; we are about showcasing the Whitsundays. So hence the view, hence the gin, hence our menu. Everything is reflecting what the Whitsundays has to offer, and we're doing it in an elevated way.”
In addition to its event spaces, the venue has expanded its offerings to include a distillery, with spirits crafted using locally sourced ingredients, including Whitsunday rainwater. The unique addition, which came during the build, required changes to the original plans but has since become a defining feature.
Glenn said the idea was to capture the Whitsundays not just in the venue, but in their spirits too.
“And we’re having a lot of fun with it,” he said.
Community has also been at the heart of the business, with the venue sponsoring local events such as Race Week and the Airlie Beach Festival of Music.
Glenn said supporting locals is vital to their business. “We’re a community-based business, and we want to see the community do well.”
“Our local clientele are also very important. The second part of that is, if you start to bring in weddings or events from out of town, that will also employ more local businesses, because they're subsidiary to what we do.
Essentially, we're a venue, a distillery, and we're accommodation. But wedding planning, and all these types of events, the more active we are, the better it's going to be for other local businesses
“The more people that come through the doors, everyone wins.”
While originally operating solely as an event venue, the team has gradually opened its doors to the public for ticketed experiences, with 74 Islands Cocktail Club on Friday evenings and an exciting new signature dining series in development.
From award-winning design to a growing reputation as a premier Whitsunday destination, Elementa Whitsundays' future is bright.
And with this latest accolade, the team behind it can take pride in knowing they’ve not only created a world-class facility but also a place that will continue to bring new energy and visitors to Airlie Beach for years to come.

Eighteen-year-old Jake Duggan is proving that passion and hard work pay off, having been named the MTA Institute Apprentice of the Month for July.
Jake, who is in the second year of his auto electrical apprenticeship, works at Proserpine Auto Air and Electrical. His pathway into the trade began in a roundabout way—when owners Ray and Lisa Boyle asked him to help clean the workshop after school. That part-time job soon evolved into work experience and, before long, a school-based apprenticeship.
Having always been interested in cars, and considering a career as an electrician, Jake quickly realised this trade was the perfect way to combine the two.
“When I was growing up, my dad had earthmoving equipment, trucks and so on, and I just found it interesting,” Jake said.
Now, working alongside Ray, Jake enjoys the diversity of the jobs that come through the business. In an agricultural area like Proserpine, that means not only working on cars and trucks but also machinery and even the occasional aircraft.
“In the summertime, air conditioning is probably our main focus, but we work on the systems in cars, trucks, farming machinery and equipment, even helicopters and planes occasionally,” said Jake.
“And I’m involved any time they have something that’s a bit different. My boss really likes getting a good variety of jobs. At the moment we’re doing dual battery isolator set ups for travellers and caravan owners.”
Jake’s dedication was especially clear earlier this year when a serious road accident left Ray and Lisa away from the business for several weeks. With the help of family members, including Lisa’s father Terry, Jake stepped up to keep the workshop running. He took on stock control, diagnostics, customer service and more.
“To me, that didn’t seem like that big of a thing to do at the time … I just did it,” he said modestly.
His commitment and ability beyond his years has earned high praise from his employers and now state-level recognition. Looking ahead, Jake knows the automotive industry is always evolving and is ready to embrace the changes. Electric vehicles, for example, are already on his radar.
“We don’t see too many around here, but there are a few getting around, and they are becoming a lot more popular,” he said.
“I’m not super-interested in them, but once I have finished my apprenticeship I will look at doing some training to work on them. I want to keep learning, take things as they are and see how things go.”
With his skill, work ethic, and eagerness to learn, it’s clear Jake Duggan has a bright future in the automotive trade.
Jake Duggan has been named MTA Institute Apprentice of the Month for July (Photo Supplied)

Red Emperor Constructions, based in Cannonvale, had a successful night at the 2025 Mackay & Whitsunday Housing & Construction Awards.
Director and Owner/Builder, Alistair Sawers accepted 4 Awards, including the highly sought after House of the Year, for the magnificent Haven on Hamilton.
Alistair gracefully thanked the team at Red Emperor Constructions, the trades that contributed to this epic win, as well as Master Builders and all other award recipients. Site Manager, Iain Karon accepted the award for the recently completed Stage 8C of the Grove.
Held at the Mantra Mackay on 9 August, the industry’s night of nights was well attended and enjoyed by Red Emperor Constructions staff and partners.
Master Builders Queensland quoted “Haven on Hamilton is among the most challenging builds Red Emperor Constructions have ever undertaken – but the result is spectacular.
"The team drew high praise from our judges for their planning and innovation transporting materials from the mainland to the steep rocky site, perfectly executed construction and high-end finishes.
"The result is a luxurious island home boasting polished concrete floors, exposed concrete and cedar ceilings, stunning timber joinery, and an infinity edge pool taking in the breathtaking Whitsunday views.”
Red Emperor Constructions won the following awards at the 2025 Master Builders Awards:
The Red Emperor Constructions crew at the 2025 Master Builders Awards. Photo sourced: Facebook

A stunning 400-square-metre home at Botanica Drive has earned Eastwood Projects their first Master Builders Award, marking a major milestone for the local construction company.
“This was our first time entering the Master Builders Awards, so to come away with a win makes it even more special,” said Gabbi Eastwood from Eastwood Projects.
“We really appreciate how Master Builders celebrate builders and high-quality workmanship, it feels good to be acknowledged for that.”
The intricately designed home, located within the gated estate in Woodwark, took around 14 months to complete and stood out for its craftsmanship and detailed carpentry. The property has since been sold, but its impact has left a lasting impression on the team.
Designed with a strong focus on detail, the home has become a benchmark project for the company, which is now setting its sights on future builds with the hope of further recognition in next year’s awards.
Currently, Eastwood Projects is working on two major projects in Airlie Beach. The first is a striking three-storey modern holiday home at The Beacons on Boathaven Beach. The second is a full renovation of one of the original Airlie Crescent shacks, where the team is set to transform the old structure into a modern residence while preserving its coastal character.
With one award already under their belt and more ambitious projects on the horizon, Eastwood Projects is quickly building a reputation for high-quality design and construction in the Whitsundays.

Whitsundays-based company Tin Lid Enterprises has achieved its biggest milestone yet, taking out the prestigious Commercial Trade Contractor of the Year award at the Master Builders Awards.
This award, which is the highest at the regional level, now positions the local family-owned business for the state finals in October.
The award recognised Tin Lid’s outstanding work on the region’s new fire station, a project that demanded precision and technical skill. Over three months, the team completed all roofing and wall cladding, installing an impact-resistant system that required pre-drilling and aligning more than 10,000 holes.
Tin Lid Enterprises have been nominated in the Master Builders Awards for the last three years. In 2024, they won Judges' Commendation, but owners Kate Lilly and Nic Buhler always had their eyes set on the Commercial Trade Contractor of the Year award.
Founded in 2021 by Nic and Kate, Tin Lid Enterprises has steadily grown while keeping its close-knit, family approach. The business has trained apprentices, including one who was named Indigenous Apprentice of the Year, and continues to advocate for more young people to consider roofing as a trade.
With the award on their toolbelt, the team is now gearing up for a busy 12 months ahead, taking on major projects including the Mackay Regional Council Resource Centre of Excellence, St Patrick’s College, Carlisle Adventist College, Aldi and Harvey Norman in Cannonvale and extensions for Bunnings.
Tin Lid Enterprises are proud to have won Commercial Trade Contractor of the Year award at the Master Builders Awards. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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