Proserpine State High School proudly celebrated its 63rd Annual Awards Ceremony on Tuesday night, recognising outstanding student achievement across academia, sport, cultural and leadership categories.

The prestigious event is a highlight on the school calendar, bringing together students, families, staff, and community members to honour the hard work, dedication, and success of its young people.
The ceremony showcased the school’s commitment to nurturing excellence and personal growth, with awards presented to students who have demonstrated exceptional effort, talent, and contribution throughout the year.

Principal Don McDermid congratulated all award recipients and commended the collective achievements of the student body.

“Our Annual Awards Ceremony is a wonderful tradition that celebrates the excellence and character of our students. It’s also a reflection of the supportive community that stands behind them — parents, staff, and community members who make our school such a special place,” he said.

As the school marks more than six decades of celebrating excellence, the 63rd Annual Awards Ceremony stands as a proud reminder of its enduring values — achievement, integrity, and community spirit.

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Pictured at the Proserpine State High School 63rd Annual Awards Night in the back row is Principal Don McDermid with students Mia Vloedmans, Bella Knight, Allegra Bradley, Savannah Lamont, Sarah Hart, and Mayor Ry Collins. Front are students Hayden Turnbull, Zachary Gould and Fyn Gunn.

School Principal Don McDermid is pictured with Year 12 student Tavis McDonald who received the QATSIF Young Indigenous Leader Award.

Year 12 student Thalia Foster was a worthy recipient of the Australian Defence Force Future Innovators Award.

Year 11 student Sam Fogg received the Year 11 James Cook University Shield.

Year 10 student Millieson Groom was named Sportsperson of the Year and awarded the Year 10 ADF Future Innovators Award.

Year 12 student Ivy Thompson received the 2025 Cultural Award and is pictured with the school P&C Association President Natalie Stuchbree.

Year 7 student Saskia Hoey was the recipient of the 21st Century Learner Award.

Rotary Club of Proserpine President Chris Harvey pictured with the Junior Secondary Leadership Teamwork recipient Hayden Turnbull.

Year 10 students Daphne Wood and Max Pomeroy were named the St Vincent de Paul Scholarship recipients.

Year 10 student Josephine Watson was the recipient of the Year 10 ADF Long Tan Youth Leadership Teamwork Award.

Year 9 student Sarah Hart received the Junior Secondary All Rounder Award along with the Junior Instrumental Music Award.

Photos supplied

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Whitsunday Regional Council is seeking more nominations for the 2026 Australia Day Awards, with the closing date now extended to Thursday, 28th November.

The Awards celebrate the outstanding achievements and contributions of individuals and organisations across the region. Mayor Ry Collins is encouraging everyone to take a moment to nominate someone special.

“We all know someone whether they’re a high achiever or a quiet contributor who deserves recognition for making our community stronger, inclusive and more connected,” Mayor Collins said.

“Taking a few minutes to nominate them is a great way to shine a spotlight on their hard work and dedication. These awards are an opportunity to celebrate the people and groups who make the Whitsunday Region such an exceptional place to live.”

The Awards recognise excellence across a range of categories:

• Citizen of the Year Award – Honouring individuals aged 27 years or older as of 26 January 2026 who have made significant contributions to the Whitsunday Region or provided outstanding service to the community.

• Young Citizen of the Year – Celebrating young people aged 16–26 as of 26 January 2026 who have positively impacted the community.

• Community Event of the Year – A standout event that has made a meaningful local impact.

• Spirit of the Whitsundays Award – Recognising generosity, pride and contributions that strengthen community connection.

• Corporate Community Contribution of the Year – Honouring business-led initiatives or support that benefit our region.

• Community Champion Award – Mayoral Award – Selected by the Mayor to acknowledge exceptional voluntary contributions in arts, culture, sport or service.

• Volunteer of the Year Award – Celebrating volunteers of all ages who have significantly contributed to the Whitsunday Region. This award is presented in honour of Wally Hinschen.

How to Nominate:

• Complete the online nomination form via Your Say Whitsunday.

• Download a PDF nomination form from the Your Say Whitsunday website.

• Collect and submit a hard copy from any Council Customer Service Centre at Collinsville, Bowen, Proserpine or Cannonvale.

Nominations close 5pm, Thursday 28th November, so don’t miss your chance to recognise the unsung heroes of our region.

Further information on the Australia Day Award celebrations will be provided at a later date.

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The 2025 Whitsunday Citizen of the Year was Matt Stokes President of Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network. Photo sourced: Whitsunday Life Newspaper

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Last Friday a major milestone for the Bowen community was announced with the official opening of the Yaringa Frontline Accommodation Units, a purpose-built housing complex designed to support frontline health, education and aged care professionals.

The first of its kind in Queensland, Yaringa consists of four two-bedroom units centrally located in Bowen, providing secure and affordable housing for up to eight essential workers. Each unit includes a shared laundry, kitchen, dining and living space, as well as a garage and parking bay.

The $3.2 million project was funded by the Queensland Government, whose investment has directly addressed one of Bowen’s most pressing challenges, the shortage of workforce housing.

Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, Manufacturing, and for Regional and Rural Development Dale Last MP said that "Like most of Queensland, Bowen has paid the price for Labor’s failure to boost housing. That failure resulted in housing not being available for the health and education professionals that our community needs."

“The Bowen Community Council has done a great job in identifying an opportunity that will not only boost services in Bowen but will also help to reduce the pressure on Bowen’s rental market.

“The opening of Yaringa is a great illustration of the Crisafulli LNP Government’s commitment to work cooperatively with community groups to create better communities across Queensland.”

Chairperson of the Bowen Community Council Inc. Chris Coventry said this project is more than just bricks and mortar.

"It’s about restoring access to essential services for Bowen residents and giving our frontline workers a place to call home," he said.

“These four units will provide essential accommodation for our frontline professionals – our nurses, allied health workers and teachers who play a vital role in the wellbeing and future of our town.

“By housing these dedicated professionals locally, we not only support their critical work but also free up accommodation for other community members. Most importantly, we’re helping to ensure that our elderly residents no longer have to travel long distances for essential care.”

Meeting a critical need
Bowen has long struggled to attract and retain professional staff due to rental vacancy rates below 0.5 per cent and limited housing stock. This shortage has impacted the delivery of essential services, including healthcare, schooling and aged care.

Yaringa responds to this need by:
• Providing dedicated accommodation for medical and allied health staff, improving continuity of care and reducing wait times.
• Supporting local schools by housing teachers who previously commuted long distances, enabling better access to before- and after-school programs.

Community impact
The Yaringa units are already making a difference:
• Queensland Health has secured housing for four staff, stabilising local medical services.
• Queens Beach State School has increased its capacity to recruit and retain teachers.
• Murroona Gardens has regained two aged care rooms for immediate use.

“This project is a testament to what can be achieved when government, community and service providers work together to solve real-world challenges,” said President of the Bowen Community Centre Christine Coventry.

“We’re grateful to the Queensland Government for its support, which is already improving access to key services," she added.

“Our vision is to continue expanding accommodation options to attract and retain professionals in Bowen because when they thrive, our entire community thrives.”

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The spirit of giving is alive and well in the Whitsundays, with long-time local community champions Michael and Val Kimpton making a generous $1,000 donation to the Mayor’s Festive Appeal to support families in need this Christmas.

Mayor Ry Collins said the contribution reflects the kindness and community pride that defines the Whitsundays.

“Michael and Val are wonderful examples of the generosity we see right across our region,” Mayor Collins said.

“Their support helps ensure every family can experience a brighter Christmas, and we’re incredibly grateful."

The Kimptons are well known for their involvement in local events and advocacy. Michael is the Race Director of the Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival, one of the region’s premier sporting events, and both he and Val have recently been strong advocates for establishing a mobile blood bank service in the Whitsundays.

Michael said they were happy to support a cause that directly assists local families.

“We live in such a caring region, and if our contribution encourages even one more person to donate, then that’s a win for the whole community,” he said.

Residents who wish to contribute to the Mayor’s Festive Appeal can do so by:

Donating toys, gift vouchers or festive items at any Council Customer Service Centre or Library by 5 December, or Donating $25 or $50 to fund a Festive Gift Box for a family in need.

Mayor Collins encouraged anyone able to assist to get involved.

“Every donation, big or small, makes a meaningful difference,” he said. “Together, we can help make Christmas a little brighter for Whitsunday families.”

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Val Kimpton, Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins, and Michael Kimpton. Photo supplied

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What a night for the Whitsundays at the 2025 Queensland Tourism Awards.

Our region once again shone on the state stage, with local operators featuring strongly across multiple categories and bringing home an impressive haul of awards. It was fantastic to see the breadth of talent and passion on display from accommodation providers to adventure operators and our dedicated volunteers.

A huge congratulations to our gold medallists Pinnacles Resort & Spa, Whitsunday Escape, and Iconic Whitsunday Adventures along with all other winners and finalists. These operators continue to showcase the Whitsundays as one of Australia’s most remarkable visitor destinations.

I was also proud to join Council’s commercial team, led by Craig Turner, in accepting a Gold Award for the Shute Harbour Marine Terminal. This award recognises the terminal’s transformation into a modern, high-quality gateway to the islands and an invaluable community asset. Equally pleasing was the Silver Award for Whitsunday Coast Airport, which continues to achieve record passenger numbers and deliver exceptional service.

It was wonderful to see the Bowen Tourism and Business volunteers awarded Bronze for their outstanding contribution. Their warmth and hospitality leave a lasting impression on thousands of visitors every year.

Throughout the week I also met with key tourism leaders, including Assistant Minister for Tourism Nita Green, Tourism Minister Andrew Powell, Assistant Tourism Minister Bree James, and the QTIC team. Those conversations reinforced the strong momentum our region is building, and the confidence industry leaders have in the Whitsundays’ future.

But the celebrations don’t end there.

This Friday night we turn the spotlight to our local business community at the inaugural Whitsunday Business Awards, a new initiative created through Council’s Whitsunday 2030 Economic Development Strategy. The event will be held at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, one of Council’s premier venues and an outstanding facility that showcases the best of regional arts, events and community gatherings.

With more than 200 guests attending and a fantastic spread of finalists across multiple sectors, the night promises to be full of pride, energy and well-deserved recognition. Our businesses, from tourism and retail to trades, services, agriculture and everything in between, are at the heart of a strong Whitsunday region.

It’s been a brilliant week of celebration for the Whitsundays and with the Business Awards ahead, the best is still to come.

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AGM & New Board Members

At the Whitsundays Chamber Of Commerce & Industry Annual General Meeting last Thursday new board members Giulian Grasso and Doug O’Connor were welcomed.

President Allan Milostic said Chamber finish in a strong financial position for 2024, reporting solid financial health and significant momentum.

Key achievements in 2024 - 2025 included hosting State and Federal election candidate forums, strengthening collaboration with government and regional partners, making six Council submissions, releasing findings from the Vision for the Whitsundays project, enhancing advisory and sub-committee structures, merging with Weddings Whitsundays, expanding membership to 230 businesses, and delivering 11 events with more than 300 attendees.

Entering 2025–26, the Chamber is positioned for continued growth and impact, boosted by a sold-out Business Conference, a successful Business Awards program, and new responsibility for Cruise Ship Markets management.

Jade Yvonne from Amanda Camm MP's office presented a summary of the year. Which included a range of new initiatives, policy reforms, and funding programs designed to reduce red tape, improve access to government services, boost procurement opportunities, and strengthen regional business growth. Additional support programs were highlighted, including grants for security upgrades, wage subsidies for apprentices, extended business wellness services, and new cyber-security training resources.

The Whitsunday Regional Council also announced a successful year including initiatives such as $50 million being allocated for housing infrastructure, a $33 million sewer project from Bowen to Whitsunday Paradise and $10 million is earmarked for the Cannonvale sewer project and more.

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Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce Board Members Fiona Erquiaga, Giulian Grasso, Jannah Baker, Doug O’Connor, Allan Milostic, Megan Taylor and Emily Harvey (absent Anthony Nobilia and Asher Telford). Photo credit: Mackay and Whitsunday Life

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Bowen Community Centre recently held its Community Champions Recognition event, a chance to thank the people and organisations who make our town such a special place. Over the past three years, the Centre has delivered 23 free services to the community  from chair exercises and playgroups to the soup kitchen, food bank, Second Bite, and cooking classes. These programs are possible because of the champions who gathered with us on 7 December.

The truth is, without these heroes we couldn’t do what we do. The Government provides the space and facilities, but it’s the dedication of 18 community champions that brings events like the Community Carnival, Health Forums, and R U OK Day to life. Their efforts ensure Bowen has the support, connection, and spirit we all rely on.

We are proud to acknowledge the generosity of Abbot Point Operations, Bowen Industrial Hire, Hillery Group, Lowcock Builders, Peries IGA Bowen, Whitsunday Regional Council, Bowen Community Sunday Markets, Bowen Men’s Shed, Aurizon, Bowen Baptist Church, Coral Cove Apartments, ECM Project Engineering, Grace Christian Fellowship, Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Horseshoe Bay Social Club, the memorial of James Barry, Prices Plus Bowen, Woolworths Bowen, and Zonta Club of Bowen Inc.

These Business and community organisations stand shoulder to shoulder with our community. Their belief in Bowen is the reason we can continue offering free programs and events year after year. If we can ask one thing of our community, it’s this: shop locally and support those who support you. Together, we’ll keep Bowen strong and thriving.

Contributed with thanks to Bowen Community Centre

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On Saturday, 15 November, Bowen State High School celebrated the sporting achievements of its students for 2025. As the champion house for the year, the mighty Kennedy Roos saw McKenna Hall transformed in shades of blue to mark their victory over the other houses.

More than 250 students, staff, and parents enjoyed an evening reflecting on the year’s sporting highlights. Sports recognised on the night included athletics, cross country, swimming, volleyball, AFL, hockey, rugby league and rugby 7s, netball, touch, futsal, and many more. The Most Valuable Players from each team were announced, and North Queensland and Queensland representatives received their commemorative towels.

A major highlight of the evening was guest speaker Corey Jensen — NRL premiership player and former Bowen SHS Sportsman of the Year. He spoke to the audience about the grand final, his inspirations growing up, and offered advice to students aspiring to become professional athletes.

The Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year were then crowned, and the 2026 House Captains and Vice-Captains were announced to the bang of confetti cannons.

Principal Mr Rob Harris in this Principal address said that the evening was exciting and it was good to get together and celebrate the sporting acheivements of students.

"It is also an evening to recognise the hard work and commitment of our staff, parents and carers who have supported our sporting individuals and teams to achieve their best results this year," he said.

"Throughout 2025, I have watched our students shine on the field, track and courts. I attribute the outstanding sporting achievements to a dedicated and passionate staff who have been persistent in finding opportunities for our students to compete in local, regional and state events."

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Ex Bowen boy and NRL premiership player Corey Jensen with Bowen State High School Principal Rob Harris

Corey Jensen and Emma and Winlee interviewing him on stage

Photos supplied

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Alinta Energy is hosting a community drop-in information session on Wednesday 26 November to share details about the proposed Mt Challenger Wind Farm project and hear local feedback. The session will be held at the Proserpine Tennis Club. The project team will be in attendance between 4pm and 7pm and is encouraging community members to drop by at a time that suits to speak with members of the team.

The Mt Challenger Wind Farm project is in the early development phase and is located between Proserpine and Bowen in the Whitsunday Regional Council area. The proposal currently includes around 30 turbines with a total capacity of up to 220 MW and would supply clean energy to the National Electricity Market for decades. As planning work progresses through 2025–26, Alinta Energy will be undertaking technical studies, environmental assessments and local engagement. 

Alinta Energy’s Chief Development Officer Andres Maasing said, “it’s an exciting project and potentially a powerful opportunity for the region. We’re looking forward to meeting with the community to discuss some of the benefits associated with the proposal, and to hear any concerns. These sessions are an important part of our commitment to genuine engagement.” 

Subject to approvals, the project would bring local jobs during construction and operations, upgrades to essential services and roads, landowner and neighbour payments, and a community benefit sharing program negotiated with the Whitsunday Regional Council and shaped by community input.  

Further information and contact details for the project are available via https://www.mtchallengerwindfarm.com/.

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For International Survivors Of Suicide Loss Day

Residents of the Whitsunday Shire are warmly invited to come together later this month for a heartfelt Memorial Service marking International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day. The event, designed to support those bereaved by suicide and honour the memories of loved ones lost, will be held at Queens Beach this Sunday, the 23rd of November.

Hosted by the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network, Kevla and Stackelroth Farms, the gathering aims to create a safe, compassionate space for reflection, connection and healing. All community members are welcome to attend.

The service will begin at 9am at 33 Murroona Street, before attendees walk together down to the shoreline. There, a moving casting of sunflowers will take place as a symbolic gesture of remembrance and hope. The morning will also feature live music, stories of lived experience and messages of encouragement for those who continue to feel the impacts of suicide loss.

Organisers say the event offers an important opportunity for people to feel understood and supported, whether their loss is recent or many years past. International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day is recognised around the world as a day for communities to stand beside those grieving and reinforce that they are not alone.

The Bowen Memorial Service will run from 9am to 11am, with all residents encouraged to attend, reflect and unite in support of local families touched by suicide.

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Sunflowers have long been considered a symbol of hope, strength and resilience, and will be part of this weekend's heartfelt Memorial Service (Photo Source: Unsplash)

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The Whitsunday business community will come together Friday 21 November to celebrate innovation, leadership, and community spirit at the inaugural Whitsunday Business Awards, recognising 70 outstanding nominees across ten award categories.

Delivered in partnership between Whitsunday Regional Council, the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Bowen Chamber of Commerce, the awards shine a spotlight on the people and enterprises driving growth across the region.

This year’s event is proudly supported by Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine as Principal Partner, highlighting its commitment to building stronger, more connected communities through business support.

A full list of all nominees can be seen on page 30.

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And the 2025 Whitsunday Business Awards Nominees are:

Best of the Whitsundays: Business of the Year – presented by Australian Radio Network (StarFM)
For an outstanding business that sets the gold standard for excellence, innovation, and leadership in the region.
• Airlie Beach Hotel
• Airlie Beach Tourism
• Birds Fish Bar
• Mana Skin Body & Soul
• Murroona Gardens
• Ocean Rafting
• Whitsunday Life Newspaper

Business Leader of the Year – presented by Abbot Point Operations
Recognising an inspiring leader whose vision, dedication and influence have driven exceptional business and regional success.
• Garry Matthias, Corrsafe Enterprises
• Jenny Rush, Aquatic Rush
• Kellee Fogg, Whitsunday Law
• Robert Congo, Yooribaya Cultural Experience

Rising Star: Employee, Apprentice or Trainee – presented by McDonald’s Restaurants (Airlie Beach, Cannonvale & Bowen)
Highlighting an exceptional individual who has demonstrated outstanding growth, dedication and contribution.
• Aaron Murphy, Down to Earth Whitsundays
• Allen Bauer, Bird’s Fish Bar
• Billy Hinchcliffe, Pilchers Mitre 10 Bowen
• Jessica March-Peach, Women’s Well Co
• Orry Ferguson, Airlie Beach Hotel
• Shontelle Betzel, Bowen Rail Company

Small Business Hero – presented by Bishopp Outdoor Advertising
Recognising sole traders and small businesses that make a big impact through ambition, innovation and resilience.
• Above and Below Gallery
• Airlie Health Hub
• Ambitious Cakes
• Ceremonies by Georgina
• Edge Dance Studio Whitsunday
• Mumabuba
• Oceanic Tales
• Option Insurance Brokers
• Party Cakes Whitsunday
• Principle Movements
• Queen of Clothing
• The Answer is Yes
• Tim Warren Auto Airconditioning & Electrical
• Yooribaya Cultural Experiences

Customer Service Champion – presented by LiveLife Pharmacy Airlie Beach
Celebrating businesses and individuals who consistently go above and beyond to create unforgettable customer experiences.
• Airlie Beach Executive Services
• Hogs Breath Cafe Airlie Beach
• Bowen Tourism and Business
• Katrina Williams, Garden Shack Whitsundays
• Magnums Accommodation Airlie Beach
• Mana Skin Body & Soul
• Mariah Dean, Frangipani Cleaning Services
• Peninsula Airlie Beach
• Tamarra Robson, Bowen Meals on Wheels
• Whitsunday Sailing Outrigger

Regional Game Changer – presented by nbn Co
Recognising businesses that fuel economic growth, innovation, and community prosperity across the region.
• Bowen Gumlu Growers Association
• Corrsafe Enterprises
• Shiift
• Tin Lid Enterprises
• Whitsunday Life Newspaper
• Whitsundays Property Buyers

Trailblazing Young Entrepreneur – presented by TAFE Queensland
Celebrating rising stars (under 25) who are redefining success in start-ups, leadership, or industry innovation.
• Fayith Mitchell, Photography for You
• Mariah Dean, Frangipani Cleaning Services
• Sam Vanderpoel, Rolling with Netherpoel

Community Champion – presented by Rotary Club of Airlie Beach
Highlighting businesses making a real difference in the Whitsunday community through meaningful contributions and initiatives.
• Abbot Point Operations, Community Support Program
• Bowen Community Op Shop
• Bowen Meals on Wheels
• Bowen Tourism and Business
• Club Whitsunday
• Creative Connections Whitsunday
• Murroona Gardens
• Tassal
• Tin Lid Enterprises
• Whitsunday Housing Co

Eco Excellence – presented by Green Energy Technologies
Showcasing businesses that are leading the way in sustainability, environmental responsibility, and green innovation.
• Airlie Health Hub
• Bubble Soap Co
• Coral Sea Marina
• Pilchers Recycling
• Whitsunday Segway Tours
• Zero Waste Solutions

Business Legends of the Whitsundays: Hall of Fame – presented by Whitsunday Regional Council
Celebrating businesses or individuals that have achieved long-term success and made an enduring impact.
• Abbot Point Operations
• Magnums Accommodation Airlie Beach
• Nathan Fleming, Airlie Beach Tourism and Ocean Rafting
• Tim Warren Auto Airconditioning & Electrical

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Bowen Tourism and Business is celebrating after being nominated in two categories at the inaugural Whitsunday Business Awards, marking another major milestone for the organisation that has long championed the region’s visitor economy.

The organisation will be vying for Community Champion and Customer Service Champion, two categories that recognise outstanding service.  The categories highlight local businesses making a genuine impact in the Whitsundays and celebrating those who consistently go above and beyond to deliver outstanding customer experiences.

For Bowen Tourism and Business, the nominations reflect not only its frontline work in welcoming visitors but also its wider role in promoting the Whitsundays as a whole.

Manager Leanne Abernethy said the organisation was thrilled to be recognised in the first year of the awards program.

“We are very pleased to be in the running in two categories at the Whitsunday Business Awards,” she said.

“Every member of our team, including staff and our dedicated volunteers, is proud of the role we play in championing the entire Whitsundays region.

“We pride ourselves on exceptional customer service and our welcoming hospitality. We aim to make every visitor feel like a guest in our home and we provide them with information of hidden gems in the entire region to assist in planning their trip.”

The nominations follow a string of achievements for Bowen Tourism and Business. The team won the Customer Service Award at last year’s Tourism Whitsunday Awards, was named Visitor Information Centre of the Year at the 2025 Queensland Information Centre Conference, and this year saw its volunteers take home Bronze at the Queensland Tourism Awards.

Leanne said having the new awards established specifically to acknowledge local business excellence makes the recognition even more meaningful.

“We are very pleased that these awards have been introduced, giving every business in our region the chance to celebrate success,” she said.

“The awards night is also an excellent networking opportunity.”

Bowen Tourism and Business attributes much of its success to the people who greet visitors every day. The organisation’s volunteers remain at the heart of its operations, offering what Leanne describes as “country hospitality that is second-to-none.” Their dedication, paired with strong marketing efforts and recent accolades, has contributed to a record number of visitors to the Bowen Visitor Information Centre this year.

The centre also plays a vital economic role in the region, stocking an extensive range of locally made products and souvenirs that support businesses right throughout the Whitsundays.

Beyond this, the centre is busier than ever, welcoming more than 1000 visitors every week.

Among the centre’s most popular offerings is its famous mango sorbet, made from 100 per cent natural Kensington Pride mangoes grown in Bowen, provides an authentic taste of the region to travellers and locals alike.

As the awards night approaches, Bowen Tourism and Business express their gratitude to those who support its work year-round. Leanne thanked the volunteer committee and the Whitsunday Regional Council for its ongoing financial support.

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Bowen Tourism and Business team members - Leanne Abernethy, Glenn Womal, Melissa Beuzeville, Trudy Starkey, Cindy Tonks, Kate Mackie. Photo supplied

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Airlie Beach Hotel employee Orry Ferguson has been nominated for the Rising Star: Employee, Apprentice or Trainee category in this year’s Whitsunday Business Awards, earning recognition for his exceptional dedication, leadership, and rapid professional growth.

Known for his maturity and commitment well beyond his years, Orry has built a strong reputation within the hospitality industry. While balancing a demanding 50-hour work week, newlywed life, and the responsibilities of homeownership, he consistently brings energy, focus, and professionalism to his role.

Within the Airlie Beach Hotel team, Orry has become a natural leader. He is described as someone who supports his peers, encourages training and development, and upholds high standards of safety and service. At just 22 years old, Orry is a standout contributor, bringing forward thoughtful solutions, driving operational improvements, and inspiring younger team members with his ambition and work ethic. His journey reflects not only personal growth but also a meaningful impact on the venue’s culture and performance.

Orry has also made a positive impact beyond the venue, particularly through work with PCYC students completing work experience placements. His own progression from entry-level staff member to a leadership role has become an inspiring and relatable example for young people exploring hospitality careers.

He has set his sights on becoming a Venue Manager and is actively working toward that goal through AVC’s advanced development program. His confidence continues to grow, and he’s now making mature, strategic decisions that reflect leadership readiness.

Despite limited spare time, he remains active in the local community, often engaging with events and tourism initiatives alongside his wife. Those who have mentored him describe him as level-headed, empathetic, and resilient, with a strong future ahead.

His nomination highlights not only his achievements, but the standard he is setting for the next generation of hospitality professionals.

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Whitsunday Law has been named a finalist in the Business Leader of the Year category at the inaugural Whitsunday Business Awards, marking a significant achievement for the local firm. Director of Whitsunday Law Kellee Fogg says the nomination reflects the strength of the entire team and the firm’s longstanding commitment to delivering practical, community-focused legal services across the region.

This nomination adds to a history of professional contribution and service, including Rotary’s Pride of Workmanship Award in 2010. The firm also takes great pride in its consistently high client satisfaction and referral rates, which Kellee says is their proudest indicator of their work.

Kellee said the nomination is deeply meaningful to the entire team at Whitsunday Law.

“We are honoured and delighted to be nominated,” she said.

“This recognition reflects the dedication of our entire team to delivering efficient, practical, and outcome-focused legal services to our community.

“Being acknowledged by our peers and clients in the Whitsundays affirms our mission to provide timely, real-world solutions with professionalism and care.”

Kellee added that the nomination feels particularly significant as it comes in the inaugural year of the awards.

“The Whitsunday Business Awards celebrate local enterprise and community impact, and being part of the first cohort underscores our longstanding commitment to the region. It is both a privilege and a responsibility to help set the standard for excellence these awards will represent into the future.”

Whitsunday Law is known for its broad range of services delivered under one roof, including conveyancing, leasing, commercial and business transactions, wills and estates, family law (property matters), criminal and traffic law representation, and debt recovery and litigation. The firm’s solutions-driven approach prioritises clarity, early risk identification and efficient resolution, with clients gaining direct access to solicitors throughout their matter.

Kellee said these qualities, combined with deep local knowledge and experience across Queensland, help the firm stand out. “Clients receive timely answers and direct access to our solicitors, ensuring momentum on matters from start to finish.”

Many may not know that Whitsunday Law regularly assists clients at short notice, with fast turnaround times and a modern, agile approach that blends metropolitan-level efficiency with the accessibility of a regional firm. Their commercial and leasing expertise spans multiple industries, and many client relationships stretch across numerous property purchases, transactions and business changes.

“We extend heartfelt thanks to our incredible clients, our dedicated Whitsunday Law team and our supportive local community,” Kellee said.

As anticipation builds for the awards celebration, Kellee says the nomination is a welcome reminder of what matters most in business.

“We’re proud to call the Whitsundays home, and we look forward to continuing to grow with our region. This nomination is a reminder that integrity, community connection and genuine care still matter—and we’re grateful to be recognised alongside so many wonderful local businesses and other nominees.”

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