Queensland’s tourism industry has reached a significant milestone, with new figures confirming record-breaking international visitation and spending in the year ending December 2025. According to Tourism Research Australia, the state welcomed 2.4 million international visitors—an increase of 9.8 per cent—who contributed a record $7.5 billion to the economy.

More notably, 1.4 million of those visitors travelled for holidays, spending $3.6 billion, a sharp rise of nearly 30 per cent. These figures underscore the continued global appeal of Queensland as a leisure destination, particularly as international travel continues to stabilise following years of disruption.

New Zealand remained Queensland’s largest international market, with more than 508,000 visitors contributing close to $1 billion in spending. Other key markets included China, the United Kingdom, Japan and the United States, alongside emerging strength from Taiwan and France, all of which recorded substantial visitor expenditure.

Major events played a role in driving these numbers. High-profile fixtures such as the 2025 British and Irish Lions tour and the Ashes Test in Brisbane helped boost visitation, particularly from the UK. Meanwhile, Brisbane and the Gold Coast led the state in international visitor spending, while Tropical North Queensland stood out as the strongest regional performer, attracting 622,000 visitors and generating more than $1.2 billion.

Domestic tourism also remained a cornerstone of the state’s visitor economy, with total expenditure reaching $36.9 billion. Growth in this segment, supported by strong day-trip activity, continues to provide stability alongside the international market.

The Queensland Government has pointed to these results as evidence that its long-term tourism strategy, Destination 2045, is beginning to deliver outcomes. Minister for Tourism Andrew Powell said the figures reflect growing global recognition of the state’s appeal.

“Queensland’s reputation as a premier holiday destination is resonating globally,” he said.

“Destination 2045 charts a path for Queensland to lead global tourism with unforgettable experiences, stronger economies, and better connections for visitors.”

Tourism and Events Queensland CEO Craig Davidson echoed this sentiment, highlighting the strength of the state’s tourism offering.

“Growth in holiday visitation and spend shows Queensland continues to resonate with travellers seeking that holiday feeling,” he said.

While the figures are encouraging, they also highlight the importance of sustained investment, careful planning and industry confidence to maintain momentum. Tourism remains a key economic driver for Queensland, supporting businesses, jobs and regional communities.

As the state looks ahead, the challenge will be to balance growth with sustainability, ensuring that the benefits of tourism are widely shared while preserving the natural and cultural assets that make Queensland a destination of choice.

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Photo source: Shutterstock

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David is an incredible volunteer supporting PCYC Whitsunday’s ‘Braking the Cycle’ program, who has been generously giving his time to help young people develop skills and confidence necessary to get their license. His work has helped young people build up their hours – providing much needs support.

Braking the Cycle is a state-wide initiative that covers 53 locations and so far has seen over 43,000 driving sessions conducted. The aim of the program is to provide young people with increased employment oppurtunities, community education and driver connection. Mentors provide encouragement and help young people improve their self-esteem and develop positive road safety attitudes.

Since its inception in 2012, Braking the Cycle has received numerous awards from the Australian Road Safety Awards, Queensland Reconciliation Awards and Regional Achievement & Community Awards, a silver award in the 2017 National Crime and Violence Prevention Awards.

PCYC also has an additional program – Changing Gears, an adapted program designed to support the specific cultural and learning needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living within remote communities.

Programs like Braking the Cycle make a huge difference, allowing participants to gain independence, improve employment and build essential life skills.

A huge thanks to David and the PCYC Whitsunday team for the wonderful work they continue to do – supporting the community and aiding local youth.

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Photo source: Facebook

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The winner this week is Elise Dunkis with this landscape of a windmill with the backdrop of a spectacular night sky, taken in South Australia.

Next week’s theme is Planet Earth: Landscapes, Oceans, Forests. Budding Photographers can enter by joining the Whitsunday’s Amateur Photographers group on Facebook.

Photos contributed by Whitsunday Amateur Photographers.

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London Calling – The Ultimate British Rock Tribute is set to grace the Airlie Beach Hotel with a score of unforgettable tracks from wickedly talented performers. London Calling is a high energy tribute show celebrating the uncontested icons of British rock. From Queen to Led Zeppelin to Sting, the show promises top performances from seasoned musicians. These tribute performers aren’t just any set of musos, but rather experienced professionals with a wealth of great experience.

The show features Andy K as Sting – a leading tribute artist with performances across Berlin, Las Vegas and beyond.

There is also Michael Anderson as Robert Plant, a performer with over 20 years of global touring who has been described as near identical to the original Robert Plant in his heyday.

Finally, there is Fernando Castro as Freddie Mercury – the first Freddie tribute to have headlined the Las Vegas Strip with multiple residencies.

“I absolutely love Airlie Beach; it will be my second time here. This side of the world is fantastic”, said Fernando.

Despite a wealth of experience, the talented singer is always learning new things.

“You can never get complacent because it just breeds failure. I’m always trying to make each show better than the last.”

The group are excited to be back in Australia for a series of phenomenal shows.

“We’re happy to be back in Australia. We want to put on the best show we can.”

Musical highlights include timeless hits such as ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’, ‘Stairway to Heaven’, ‘Every Breath You Take’, ‘We Are the Champions’ and countless others.

Even though this act has previously been a high–end ticketed theatre show, Airlie Beach Hotel is pleased to be putting on 3 free shows, giving all music fans the chance to relish in the iconic rock soundscapes.

WHAT: London Calling – The Ultimate British Rock Show, 3 Free Shows

WHEN: Good Friday, Easter Saturday, Easter Sunday, 2pm-5.30pm

WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel

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Photo supplied

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The community has been deeply saddened this month by the sudden passing of long-time local Nick Rorison, a man remembered for his kindness, integrity and enduring passion for flying.

Nick, aged 37, passed away unexpectedly on Monday 9th March. He is survived by his devoted wife Gyan, who shared a touching tribute to her husband.

“He was my love, my life and my person.

“I never ever thought I would be facing a life where he was not right there by my side, holding my hand, guiding and supporting me.

“We were each other’s biggest supporters and best friends. I am forever grateful for the 14 years we had together making memories, even though it will never be long enough.”

News of Nick’s passing has been met with an outpouring of grief and shock across the community, with many reflecting on the warmth, humour and unique spark that made him so memorable.

He was known as a genuine and compassionate person, always willing to listen and support those around him, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Family friend Mel Brookes shared a touching reflection.

“Nick was always so kind and loving to our boys, especially Reef in those younger days when he was so obsessed with his planes. He truly was his inspiration to love flying and one day be a pilot like him. So many memories airside, and so many with you both over the years. Sending you love.”

Nick’s love of aviation was well known throughout the region. From owning and operating Tiger Moth Whitsundays to his more recent work with CQ Adventure Flights, his presence in the skies was unmistakable.

Many locals will remember the sight of his plane looping gracefully above the Airlie Beach skyline, a reflection of both his skill and his adventurous spirit.

He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.

Nick’s funeral was held on Tuesday this week and a special memorial will be held at Whitsunday Coast Airport Shute Harbour on Tuesday 31^st March at 2.30pm.

Caption:

1: Nick will be remembered for his humour, kindness and adventurous spirit

2: Nick and his wife beloved wife Gyan in happier times

3: Nick doing what he loved most, flying loops in his plane

Six-year-old Whitsundays pupil Titan wowed the team at Cruise Whitsundays after creating a gorgeous pastel drawing of their vessel, Seaflight, during art class.

His mum, Rachael, shared the image on social media, and the Cruise Whitsunday team soon responded with their appreciation.

Learning how much the crew loved the artwork, Titan kindly gifted them the original, which now hangs in the terminal office.

Cruise Whitsundays repaid this honour with an invitation for Titan and his family to experience the real Seaflight for themselves with a trip out to the reef pontoon.

Liza Muller, Sales & Marketing Manager at Cruise Whitsundays, said the interaction was a special reminder of the company’s connection to the local community.

“With multiple vessels crisscrossing the region every day, we’ve really become part of the landscape — something we’re incredibly proud of,” she said.

“To see that reflected through the eyes of a young local like Titan is so special. It’s amazing to see kids across the Whitsundays recognising and connecting with what we do.”

This good deed is a charming reminder of how special it is for young ones to be brought up in this corner of the world – and how sharing our passions can create connections, open opportunities and bring joy to the people around us.

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Hi Everyone,

This week, our amazing team came together for our quarterly Team Connect - three days dedicated to reconnecting, realigning, and recharging. It’s always a highlight on our calendar, and this one certainly didn’t disappoint.

A big thank you to Judy Porter from Shiift, who led us through an insightful session, helping us better understand our individual personalities and how they all contribute to us coming together as a team.

In true celebratory style (and making up for a missed Christmas party!), we also took to the water aboard Viper for a day we won’t forget in a hurry. From the breathtaking beauty of Whitehaven Beach to snorkelling at Mantaray Bay - where we met resident Maori Wrasse, Gorgeous George - it was pure magic!

For some of our newer team members, it was their very first time experiencing the islands, while for others it was the first time they had snorkelled since a child.

Across the three days, each department rolled up their sleeves to help shape our mission, sharing the words that define who we are and what we stand for. It was incredibly rewarding to see so much overlap, with values like community, trust, positivity, adaptability, accountability, engagement, and fun rising to the top. It’s a reflection of a team that’s not only aligned, but genuinely passionate about what we do.

Of course, as luck would have it, while we were all off connecting, some major local events popped up! Our apologies to the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Coexistance Queensland - we’re grateful to those who stepped in to capture moments so we could still share them with our readers in the paper this week.

Finally, on a more serious note, our thoughts are with two local families who have experienced sudden and tragic loss this week. News like this ripples through a community like ours, and we share in that grief alongside them.

Our prayers and thoughts are with you.

Rach

Quote of the Week: “When we understand that each day isn’t one more day, but one less, we start giving more value to what truly matters.” (Unknown)

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Since 2009, Brad Sobott has proudly called the Whitsundays home, making the move from Sydney with his young family in search of a better lifestyle. What began as a temporary change soon became permanent, with Brad recognising the region as an ideal place to raise a family.

Over the years, he has become a familiar and respected figure in the community, contributing to local projects, supporting charity events, and sharing his extensive real estate expertise. With more than two decades of experience—including running his own agency—Brad brings a deep understanding of the market to every client interaction.

A skilled auctioneer as well as a sales specialist, Brad has conducted over 500 auctions across the region. Known for his professionalism and ability to achieve strong results, he is equally at ease negotiating privately or commanding the auction floor.

Brad believes that while experience is essential, the way clients are supported throughout the process matters just as much. He takes pride in providing a thoughtful, attentive service, ensuring each property journey is as smooth and positive as possible.

Though he has received numerous awards, Brad says his greatest achievement is the lasting relationships he has built with clients. For him, success is measured not just in results, but in trust, community connection, and the life he continues to build with his family in the Whitsundays.

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Emily Neil has recently started with Tourism Whitsundays as a Marketing and Administration Assistant, where she supports the team across a mix of marketing and administrative tasks. Emily really enjoys learning the role and gaining a behind-the-scenes look at how Tourism Whitsundays bring the Whitsundays to life.

Having grown up in the Whitsundays and attending St Catherine’s Catholic College, Emily has been a local for over 10 years, so choosing to live and work here has always felt natural. It’s such a special place that combines a relaxed coastal lifestyle with incredible tourism opportunities, and she feels really lucky to call it home.

In her new role, Emily is most looking forward to building skills in marketing and helping promote the Whitsundays to a wider audience. She loves combining creativity with local knowledge to showcase what makes this region so unique.

One thing she thinks everyone should know about the Whitsundays is that it’s so much more than just a holiday destination. The Whitsundays is a vibrant, close-knit community full of hidden gems, and Emily loves sharing those local insights with new travelers.

Contributed with thanks Emily Neil, Marketing and Administration Assistant, Tourism Whitsundays.

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Emily Neil

Photo supplied

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Cannonvale’s much-loved Easter Carnival is set to return in 2026, promising a vibrant afternoon of family fun, entertainment and community spirit.

The event will take place on Friday, 27 March from 5pm to 9pm at the Cannonvale State School oval, bringing together locals and visitors for an evening packed with activities for all ages.

This year’s carnival will feature a wide range of attractions, including rides, games, live entertainment, raffles and face painting, along with a special visit from the Easter Bunny. Families can enjoy interactive experiences such as the Cruise Whitsunday Treasure Hunt, while adults can unwind in the dedicated 18+ Pilchers bar area.

A variety of food stalls will also be on offer, including the popular cake stall and the Airlie Crane Hire food stall, serving up classic carnival favourites. Funds raised throughout the evening will go towards the installation of a new shade structure over the school playground, helping to keep students safe while they play year-round.

Entertainment will run throughout the evening, with live performers and an MC keeping the atmosphere lively. Visitors can also browse the craft stall, enjoy free professional face painting, and take part in raffles featuring prizes donated by local sponsors.

With free entry, attendees are encouraged to bring along their friends, family and festive spirit for what is shaping up to be a memorable community event.

Scan the bar code below to purchase your unlimited arm bands for the rides.  

For more information, contact Sabrina on 0401 959 572.

What: Cannonvale’s Easter Carnival

Where: Cannonvale State School Oval
When: Friday, 27 March, 5pm to 9pm

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To celebrate International Day of Storytelling, the Whitsundays Writers Festival is inviting writers of all levels to take part in a special Fast Fiction Competition — a creative challenge designed to spark imagination and celebrate the art of storytelling.

Writers are encouraged to craft an original story in 250 words or less, inspired by the prompt: Something unexpected washed ashore on Whitehaven Beach…

The competition is open now and closes at 11:59pm on Friday 3 April 2026, with entries submitted online via the festival website. Free to enter, participants can submit as many entries as they like, making it an accessible opportunity for both seasoned writers and newcomers to share their creativity.

The winning writer will receive a $100 cash prize, along with a free day pass to the 2026 Whitsundays Writers Festival — a chance to connect with fellow writers, readers, and literary voices from across the region.

Festival Director Richard Evans says the competition is designed to inspire and encourage storytelling in a fun, low-pressure way.

“This is about celebrating the power of stories in a place as inspiring as the Whitsundays,” he said. “We’re excited to see how writers interpret the prompt and bring the region to life in just 250 words.”

Aspiring entrants are encouraged to think creatively, embrace the spirit of the Whitsundays, and let their imagination lead the way.

When: 10:30am–4:30pm Sunday 13 September 2026
Where: Whitsunday Marine Club, 7 Altmann Ave, Airlie Beach

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Photo source: Shutterstock

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Copper thieves who risk lives by cutting telecommunications and plunging deadly intersections into darkness could now face life in jail under proposed new legislation welcomed by Member for Burdekin Dale Last.

Public consultation has now opened as the Crisafulli Government works to tackle rising metal thefts, including copper wire, which have seen criminals not only endanger their lives, but the lives of others in the community.

Mr Last said the proposed legislation demonstrated how seriously the Crisafulli Government was taking the theft of copper wire.

“We’ve seen drivers forced to navigate pitch black intersections on some of the deadliest intersections of our highway while copper cabling has also been cut from emergency generators and telecommunications infrastructure in these despicable acts,” Mr Last said.

“Under the proposed legislation criminals who target essential key infrastructure where the life or health of a person is endangered or the conduct occurs during or in the lead-up to a natural disaster will face up to 25 years imprisonment.”

“As the Premier said earlier this year these are the lowest of acts and our government is taking action with penalties to reflect the seriousness of these crimes and the cost they impose to taxpayers to undertake repairs.”

Mr Last said following the introduction into parliament the proposed legislation was now up for consultation and encouraged anyone affected by these crimes to make their voices heard.

“As with any new legislation it’s important the mechanisms and outcomes achieve what our communities expect which is why we encourage anyone affected by these sorts of crimes to make their voices heard during the public consultation process.”

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Photo source: Facebook

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At Collinsville State High School, students are proving that when it comes to education, bigger isn’t always better.

As the 2026 Student Council school president, Kodi Mackie says they are often asked whether attending a school with fewer than 150 students feels limiting. The answer is simple: the school’s size is not a barrier, but a launchpad.

Reflecting on her final year, Kodi offers one key piece of advice to fellow students—carpe diem, seize every opportunity. In larger schools, it can be easy to blend into the background, but in a smaller environment, students are encouraged to step forward and make the most of every chance presented to them.

From being named Best Public Speaker at the Lions Youth of the Year Zone Finals to earning a place on the QCE Student Reference Group, these achievements highlight how initiative and willingness can open doors, regardless of location.

Collinsville State High is also embracing innovation, with students participating in the Hydrogen

Horizon (H2GP) racing team, gaining hands-on experience with renewable energy technology while

competing against schools across Queensland.

Beyond the classroom, students are supported to explore a wide range of opportunities, including Student Council, the Noosa Film Academy, STEM Girls Camp, QMEA programs and International Women’s Day initiatives.

One standout achievement for Kodi is being selected for the 2026 Queensland Youth Parliament,

offering the chance to travel to Brisbane, develop leadership skills and debate legislation in a real

parliamentary setting.

As graduation approaches, Kodi's message is clear: geography does not define potential. At Collinsville State High, students aren’t just looking to the horizon—they’re already owning it.

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Founded in December 2024, Clean Sunnie is a Whitsundays-based cleaning and property care business built on a simple but powerful belief: premium results don’t require toxic shortcuts. Specialising in short-stay and Airbnb turnover cleans, residential cleaning, and commercial and workspace services, Clean Sunnie delivers high-end outcomes while prioritising people’s health and the environment.

Central to the business is the Five-Star Reset service — a premium short-stay clean that prepares properties to a hotel-level standard using eco-safe, non-toxic systems. Beyond cleaning, Clean Sunnie supports hosts with linen coordination, eco-conscious restocking, and an online retail range of sustainable products, with free local delivery across the Whitsundays for essential items.

Clean Sunnie was founded by Nadine Brown in response to a clear gap in the local market. Despite the Whitsundays’ global environmental significance, many cleaning practices still rely on harsh chemicals and single-use waste. With a background in health and environmental science, Nadine recognised an opportunity to challenge industry norms and demonstrate that sustainability and exceptional presentation can go hand in hand.

As expectations across tourism and accommodation continue to rise, guests and property owners are increasingly focused on indoor air quality, chemical exposure, waste reduction, and authenticity over greenwashing. This shift has driven strong demand for Clean Sunnie’s approach, where sustainability is embedded into systems, training, pricing, and service design — not added on as a marketing label.

Responding to this demand, Clean Sunnie is preparing to launch Sunnie Eco-Stays, an eco-focused co-hosting and short-stay management service designed to help owners operate high-performing, low-waste, non-toxic properties.

While scaling without compromising standards has been a key challenge, Clean Sunnie has met it through strong systems, clear processes, and pricing that supports fair wages and ethical operations. As a Chamber member, the business values opportunities to connect, collaborate, and help shape a more sustainable future for Whitsundays business and tourism.

Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry

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1. Nadine Brown
2. Clean Sunnie

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Grief is hard. Sorting the paperwork shouldn’t be.

When someone passes away, there are often legal and financial matters to manage: probate, transferring assets, dealing with the bank.

We’ll guide you through the process with care and clarity. We know you’ve got enough on your plate, so we focus on making things easier, not more complicated.

Whitsunday Law – Taking care of the legal, so you can take care of each other.

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