Hello everyone, Christmas is finally here, presents are wrapped and tucked under the tree, fridges and cupboards are stocked with delicious treats and, if you’re lucky, family is close by and the kids are behaving themselves! This year, for the first time, we told the children they could buy a gift for each other. To be honest, I’m not sure why we hadn’t thought of it before, but I suppose they’re finally old enough to truly enjoy the experience and understand the joy that comes from choosing something special for someone you love. On Saturday morning, we headed down to the Airlie Beach Markets and it was an absolute delight to wander through the vibrant fair. A light breeze drifted through the stalls as passionate local business owners proudly showcased their wares, happy to chat, with some even saying they “always knock a little bit off for the kids”. From custom jewellery and hand crafted wooden sculptures to candles, soaps, bright trinkets and so much more, there was plenty to choose from. The children were thrilled as they searched for the perfect present for their sibling. As we come together at this special time of year, let’s remember that it’s the joy of giving that sits at the heart of Christmas, along with the importance of spending time with those we love. Let’s spare a thought for those who may be lonely, sad or unwell over the festive season, and hope they find connection, moments of uplift, and a share of Christmas cheer. To our loyal readers and valued advertisers, I wanted to take a moment to thank you for being such an important part of the paper throughout the year. I love seeing people eagerly pick up their copies from the stands each week, and hearing how much local businesses value the paper as a way to share their message with the community. Finally, a special thank you to our wonderful team here at the paper. Printing four weekly newspapers is no small task, and it’s your passion and dedication that make every day so magic. Rach Quote of the Week: "Christmas isn't a season . . . it's a feeling" (Edna Ferber)
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MRQ Whitsundays were called into action on December 15 after an emergency EPIRB was activated east of the commercial shipping channel. The distress signal came from a small Haines Hunter experiencing trouble offshore. Police vessel Damien Leeding was already responding when assistance was requested from the local volunteer rescue crew. Crew members Chris, Nat and John quickly prepared the vessel and departed Coral Sea Marina at 2:14pm. Conditions were favourable, with light winds and calm seas allowing for a smooth run towards the coordinates provided by the Rescue Coordination Centre in Canberra. As the crew approached the area east of Edward Island, updated information confirmed the police vessel had located the distressed boat and was towing it towards an intercept point. Upon arrival, the volunteers took over the tow and learned there were two people on board. The pair had lost their motor and were unable to restart it despite repeated attempts. Compounding the situation, their VHF radio could receive but not transmit, and a handheld backup radio also failed, leaving them unable to call for help and prompting the EPIRB activation. The disabled vessel was safely towed back through Hook Passage and delivered to the Port of Airlie public boat ramp just after 6.30pm. All parties returned safely, with the rescue completed without incident. The successful operation highlighted the importance of emergency beacons and the vital role played by local volunteer crews who stand ready to assist when needed on Whitsunday waters.
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On Saturday 20th December, the community came together along Airlie Beach foreshore to commemorate the victims of the tragic Bondi Beach attack. Local residents, visitors and members of Surf Life Saving Australia gathered for three minutes of silence at 8am to remember those who lost their lives in the horrific shooting that has left the nation in mourning. The event was organised by local Maz McDougall, who read the poetry of Billie Kinder, a young girl who tragically lost her own life at the age of 12 in 2016. Despite the pain and sadness evoked by the tragedy, the poetry spoke of hope and love, bringing people together during this incredibly difficult time. Following the three minutes silence, local resident Glinda played the Shofar, a traditional Jewish instrument, sounding it 15 times for the 15 victims. Everyone who had gathered then walked into the water, planting flowers amongst the waves in memory of the victims. Amongst the collection of roses, was a sunflower for 10 year old victim Matilda Bee. Though a solemn occasion, this event signified the amazing capacity for compassion and remembrance that can occur in the wake of tragedy. It is an important reminder that we should not be divided nor succumb to hate. Many communities have joined together across Australia, to highlight that no one should have their life taken in the name of race, religion or background. It is a symbol that as a country of diversity and tolerance, we stand together and hope to build a brighter future where everyone can walk the streets safely, regardless of their culture.
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As we head into the Christmas season, it’s a timely moment to pause and reflect on the year that was across Mackay and The Whitsundays - a year defined by resilience, community spirit and people looking out for one another. Throughout the year, I’ve had the privilege of meeting with residents, businesses, volunteers, emergency services and community groups right across our region. From local markets and school events to business visits and community celebrations, it’s been inspiring to see the strength and pride people have in where we live. Our towns have come together time and again - supporting small businesses, celebrating local talent, and showing compassion when times have been tough. Events like the Proserpine Christmas Twilight Fair highlighted exactly what makes our region special: people working together, welcoming families, and creating moments of joy that bring the whole community together. This year has also reinforced how important it is to keep advocating for practical outcomes - stronger support for families, investment in regional services, backing local businesses and ensuring our communities are well prepared for challenges, including severe weather during the summer months. As Christmas approaches, I want to acknowledge and thank the many volunteers, frontline workers and emergency services who give their time and energy to keep our community safe, connected and supported - often while others are spending time with loved ones. Your service does not go unnoticed. To everyone across Mackay and The Whitsundays, I wish you a safe, happy and restful Christmas. May the coming weeks bring time with family and friends, moments to recharge, and hope for the year ahead. I look forward to continuing to work alongside our community in the new year, building on what we’ve achieved and supporting the people who make our region such a wonderful place to call home. Merry Christmas and best wishes for a safe and positive New Year. Contributed with thanks to Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP
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By Ruth Puddefoot
Turning the final corner with only a few kilometres to go, Whitsunday’s local Liv Compton fixed her eyes on the finish line and on a victory. When she crossed first among women in the brutal Coast to Kosci ultramarathon in New South Wales, she didn’t just finish, she reached a personal milestone.
Ultra running is far from ordinary. With relentless training, iron will determination, and unwavering support from her team, Liv carved her own path in the world of endurance sport, and not only that, she sprinted all the way to the top.
For Liv, who has been running since she was 13 and progressed from trail runs to ultramarathons, it has never been just about crossing the finish line. It’s about pushing through when it feels like she can’t.
The sound of cheers echoes across the verdant peaks of Charlotte's Pass, New South Wales, the wind howls, and a crowd waits in anticipation. Whitsundays local Liv Compton turns the last corner of Coast to Kosci effortlessly; it’s a sight she’s seen twice before: the finish line. After 28 hours of gruelling terrain and 240km, she has made it. As the distance closes rapidly between herself and the finish line, she breaks through the ribbon; she is the first woman in the race to cross.
This win was not one of luck, but one that has followed countless hours and years of training, since she first started running at the age of 13. For Liv, the advice she gives to those looking to improve their running is simple: “Keep running every single day, multiple times a day,” advice she follows herself, with her averaging 160km on some weeks.
“Marathons and ultramarathons are two completely different sports,” Liv explained.
Ultras require far more planning, especially when it comes to nutrition. Liv, unlike many other contestants, did not receive coaching. “I live alone with my two children and work full-time, so I just make time for it. I usually run in the mornings and the afternoons,” Liv explained.
“My [nutrition] plan often goes out the window.”
“This time around, I was mainly having fluids, like smoothies, gels and liquid carbs.”
After around 105km, Liv’s plan began to falter. She consumed too much too soon, and the resulting nausea allowed her to be passed by several runners. However, after this had passed, Liv felt “amazing” and pushed through to the finish. One thing she knows is that this feeling is temporary, “I know that from experience, right? I know it's going to pass, that’s what keeps me motivated.”
Liv then began to catch the leading woman, running neck and neck with her for most of the race, Liv taking her time and happy to chase; however, at the same checkpoint after 150km, the pair spoke:
“She told me she was struggling, but like I said, I know her, so I didn't really believe that.”
With only 60 invited contenders, simply finishing this prestigious event is an achievement. Winning your category is an honour few ever experience. Liv will never forget those final minutes:
“I was running on pure adrenaline the last I don't know how many kilometres, I've done it before, so I knew I was getting close, and it was just pure happiness."
“I can't describe it, it was just one of the best moments of my life, crossing that line,” Liv recalled.
It was Liv’s first time winning Coast to Kosci, beating her previous time by an extraordinary 4 hours. She said the biggest change from her last race was how she tackled the climbs. Rather than running the whole hill, she ran only the final 50 metres, giving her enough momentum to hold a seven-minute-per-kilometre pace.
The race for Liv, however, wasn’t about winning; she just wanted to be happy with her “own race,” and what made it special was the “team effort.”
“I had an amazing crew with me that helped me get to this point. I think that winning the race made the effort for them worth it as well.”
Doubting yourself is a regular part of any race, but Liv says the main lesson she learnt from the race is that she must “start believing in [herself], and [her] own capabilities:
“I'm 42, we can do anything, age is just a number, just stop that self-doubt and just go for it.”
Liv crossing the line in first place at Coast to kosci. photo sourced.
Liv Compton hugging her boyfriend Nathan Phipps. Photo sourced.
Hi everyone,
More than 200 people from across our community came together last Friday for a truly special occasion – the inaugural Whitsunday Business Awards, held at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre.
The dress code, Hi-Vis to High-Glam, set an inspiring tone for the night and I was delighted to see such an eclectic mix on arrival: a stunning 1920s tassel dress, some very sharp shorts proudly worn by the younger attendees, and even one guest who channelled Marilyn Monroe with sass and style. This combination felt so authentically “Whitsundays” – a region filled with tradies, self-starters, school leavers, beachside corporates, fun-loving hospos and everyone in between.
The inclusive dress code perfectly matched the spirit of the event itself. For a first-year awards night, it already felt vibrant, welcoming and truly representative of who we are as a region.
Inside, the cabaret-style setting, live music and delicious snack boxes created a warm and celebratory atmosphere. Radio personality Meecham Philpott emceed the evening with humour, energy and just the right amount of genuine enthusiasm.
Twelve of our team of twenty attended, after spending the day in training and choosing to unwind together at the awards that evening. Having so many of our team present made what happened next even more special – hearing our name announced as the winner of the Regional Game Changer Award.
We all leapt onto the stage to collect the award and, in my excitement to gather everyone into place, I managed to drop the solid glass object on the floor! It hit the stage with a thud, which was followed by a dramatic gasp from the audience. Thankfully it didn’t break, and I quickly scooped it up, dusted it off and tucked it safely back into its velvet box. Worried I might be remembered as “the girl who dropped the award,” I apologised into the microphone before offering a brief but heartfelt speech. Fortunately, the crowd was wonderfully kind – and forgiving.
Receiving this award means the world to our team. As many of you know, our central office is based here in the Whitsundays, with half our team working locally and the rest stationed across the regions our other newspapers serve. Five years ago, we launched our first paper, Mackay and Whitsunday Life. Since then, two communities have invited us to open newspapers in their regions, leading to Burdekin Life and Hinchinbrook Life.
We believe passionately in giving regional communities a free voice in print. Our mission is to share quality local stories, celebrate positive news, connect communities and document history as it unfolds. I genuinely feel our papers have been gamechangers for the towns we serve, and I’m deeply grateful to be part of this revival of community journalism.
To all the businesses who won or were nominated – congratulations. It was wonderful to celebrate alongside you. Business is tough, but together we make it shine.
You can read the full Whitsunday Business Award feature from page 17.
Rach
Quote of the week: "If your dreams don't scare you, they are too small" (Richard Branson)
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
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
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
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.
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
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.
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
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."
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
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
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
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.
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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