Last week, Councillors, CEO Warren Bunker and I had the pleasure of welcoming a group of curious and bright Grade 5 students from St Catherine’s Catholic College to the Proserpine Council Chambers, where they were keen to learn how local government works.
 
The group were this term studying democracy and it's exciting to see young minds so engaged in learning about decision-making, and the role of Council in shaping the future of the Whitsundays.
 
Their visit wasn't just about answering their questions—it was also a reminder of the importance of listening to the next generation.
 
Visits like these are an important way for Council to engage with our youth, helping them to understand how their local government works and inspiring them to think about how they can contribute to their community in the future.
 
One of the highlights was explaining to the students how Council works as a team to represent the community, ensuring we deliver the infrastructure, services, and programs that help our region thrive.
 
The passion these young people displayed for their community was inspiring, and it’s wonderful to know that our future leaders are already taking an interest in the democratic process.
 
As a first term Mayor I am keen to be approachable and transparent, and we welcome the perspectives of all residents—young and old.
 
Ensuring we engage with every part of our community is essential to the long-term health of the Whitsundays, and the voices of our young people are a key part of that.
 
Our future is in good hands with these potential young leaders, and I look forward to seeing them grow and take part in the ongoing work of building a better Whitsundays.
 
Let's continue to foster their curiosity and ensure we always value their input.

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Questions posed for each candidate to answer:

1: What key policies or ideals does the political party you're running for have that you resonate most with, what are the reasons you align with them?

2: What is your main election promise and how are you going to ensure it actually happens if you are elected?

3: What policy/promise do you like from a competing party and how would you like to see it play out if elected?

4: What do you think about negative campaigning - do you think there is a place for it these days?
 
5: What is one thing unexpected that you would do if elected?

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Julie Hall
One Nation Candidate For Whitsunday

1: Common sense, people focused politics. We have the guts to say what you’re thinking. The cost of living is hurting our community and killing businesses. We need common sense decisions when it comes to securing cheaper energy for households, businesses and industry. Selling off the country’s resources so that countries like India and China can export and use our coal to provide their households with energy at one third the cost per kilowatt while our businesses and families go broke, is wrong. We need to fix our roads, provide more infrastructure to encourage development and address our youth issues starting with schools and youth crime.  

2: Labor and LNP will tell you that a vote for One Nation is a wasted vote because One Nation is unlikely to form government. The truth is that we need minor parties on the crossbench to hold the major parties to account. I promise to hold whoever is in power to their promises to the people, and if minor parties hold the balance of power, the majors will have to negotiate, and that is where we can really get things done.
  
3: One Nation delivered our policies for Queensland many months ago, and they are good common sense policies that resonate with most Queenslanders, and, it seems, some other political parties with similar views. LNP has made commitments by promising to legislate, by the end of 2024, the Making Queensland Safer Laws, including adult crime, adult time and removing detention as a last resort and putting the rights of victims first. This would be a good start.    
 
4: Politics is not a fair and equitable game, full stop. To see the unfairness in the media, you only have to look at the stories that are put out to determine which candidates are favoured because they are always featured. As far as trashing other candidates, I don’t think that’s a good look and I try and keep a positive campaign focused on my own policy. In saying that, if there is a misrepresentation that affects me or my community, then I absolutely have no problem calling it out.
 
5: The one thing that is not expected of a politician is to represent the people. I will represent the people of the Whitsundays. With the major party MPs having to tow the party line they must represent the party’s politics first. As a One Nation MP, I represent you, the people, and we put people before politics, being passionate about our region and our Australian values.

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Amanda Camm
LNP Candidate For Whitsunday

1: Safety where you live, health services when you need them, a place to call home, respect for your money and a government that is working for you. These are the basics that have been lacking under the current Labor regime and are the fundamentals that we need for our community to prosper, to drive economic growth and to support positive social outcomes. The question I am asking voters “are things better or worse for you?” - cost of living is one of the major issues facing families and individuals no matter your occupation or situation and the LNP is committed to addressing these issues. 
 
2: We have committed locally to infrastructure projects - Shute Boat Ramp ($10M) and Mackay Bucasia Road ($20M) and if elected and an LNP Government we are focused on delivering. As a member of the senior leadership team of our team I will ensure these projects are delivered. A minor party cannot make any such commitments, nor can they deliver. I am accountable to my community and have demonstrated that this past four years. 

3: I am focused on the LNP’s policies, our 100 Day Plan that has been released that outlines that we are ready to govern commencing with the Making Queensland Safer Laws that will become law before Christmas if we are elected.

4: I am focused on the Right Priorities for our region and state. Youth crime, cost of living, health access and housing affordability - these are the four areas that our community is being impacted by failings along with the lack of funding for infrastructure for our region. I believe people are tired of ‘the politics’ and just want us to get on with the job and that has always been my focus. Having spent the past four years in opposition it is frustrating and I hope that changes this election.
 
5: Spend Sunday morning in bed with a cup of tea!

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Susan Teder
Labor Candidate For Mirani

1: The cost of living measures the Miles Labor Government is delivering have resonated with me and the people of Mirani. One of the first things people talk to me about when I’m out campaigning is the $1000 power rebate and how much that has helped them. The 20 per cent off rego has also been a big boost for many people and I’m proud the party I represent in Mirani has been able to help so many people with these cost of living measures.

2: The Miles Labor Government has announced record funding for roads in Queensland and I will make sure that investment continues to roll out in this region. Our roads are just so important for our regions, especially for farmers and businesses – and I will do everything in my power to see that they continue to improve.

3: The LNP is making plenty of promises but there’s just one problem – they won’t talk about how they will pay for them, so it’s really difficult to say there’s one I would support when you don’t know where the money is coming from. At last count, the LNP had made $17 billion in unfunded promises which means they will have to pay for them in cuts to health, police and roads. I’m really worried about what could happen if they were elected here.
 
4: I’m not a fan of negative campaigns – some of the LNP ads I’ve seen have been outright lies, but I know the people of Mirani can see through that sort of stuff. They can also see when parties are hiding things – some people are scared about the LNP making abortions a criminal offence again if they are elected because they’ve seen LNP Leader David Crisafulli continually dodge questions about the issue. I’ve heard a lot of negative comments about that behaviour.
 
5: It’s probably not unexpected, but I would be a really passionate voice for Mirani in Brisbane – this region needs someone who can make a difference – and I will do that.

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Belinda Hassan
Labor Candidate For Mackay
 
1: The cost of living relief being delivered by the Miles Labor Government resonates with me the most. It’s the first thing most people mention to me as I go around Mackay listening to people in our community. The $1000 power rebate and 20 per cent off rego has made a massive difference to many people as they try to make ends meet – and I’m really proud to be part of a team delivering that help.
 
2: I will not rest until I see the Mackay Satellite Hospital is up and running. These health facilities have made such a big difference wherever they have been built, providing free and convenient care and taking the pressure off the local hospital’s emergency department. It will be an absolute gamechanger for Mackay and I will make sure it is delivered. I’ll also pull out all stops to see the $20 million transformation of maternity care across Mackay, including a brand-new, state-of-the-art birth centre for our growing community.

3: Nothing would give me more pleasure than to back the policy of my opposition because I think we all need to work together to make a difference for our community – however, the reality is with the LNP’s $17 billion of unfunded promises I genuinely fear the cuts they would introduce if elected. The last time the LNP was in government they cut our health services to the bone and detailed modelling shows that across the Mackay area, more than 120 beds and more than 370 health jobs are at risk under a David Crisafulli Government.
 
4: I think the people of Mackay expect debate to be civil and for everyone to stick to the facts and provide straightforward answers to people’s questions. For example, many people I meet are scared the LNP will try and make abortions a criminal offence again if they are elected. Now, the easy way for that debate to be settled would be for the Opposition Leader David Crisafulli to provide clear answers on the topic, but he keeps dodging the questions about it, so people are getting frustrated and worried, and that creates a whole negative atmosphere for the election.
 
5: I don’t know if it’s totally unexpected, but if I was elected, I would immerse myself even more into the community, continuing to help local charities to fundraise for good causes.

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Daniel Carroll
Katter Party Candidate For Burdekin

1: Unlike other political parties, the KAP is a values based party. We believe in fairness for all North Queenslanders and offer common sense solutions to serious problems such as crime, support for businesses and cost of living.

2: Our first priority is to address the crime problem we face in Queensland. This generates so much waste and suffering for individuals and organisations. 

3: I like the promise from the liberal party that they will address the issue with youth crime but fear that their policies will not work 

4: I am running an entirely positive campaign and have nothing negative to say about any of the other candidates 

5: I will do a tour of every pub and social club in the electorate. I think these are often at the heart of our communities and need our support.

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Dale Last
LNP Candidate For Burdekin
 
1: I am representing the Liberal National Party (LNP), just as I always have. Since joining the party and as Member for Burdekin I have consistently resonated with and upheld their ideals and policies. These ideals like having freedom of conscience and freedom of expression have been the foundation of my work as the Member for Burdekin, ensuring that no matter where you live or work in the Burdekin, there is an opportunity to raise your concerns, beliefs or desires with me.
 
2: My priority has always been and will always be the electorate of the Burdekin. I am proud to have worked closely with the Burdekin community to fight for a safer community, better access to health services and roads that meet the needs of the industries that rely on them. Burdekin residents made it clear they wanted to see a CT scanner at their hospital, and I am proud to say an LNP elected government will deliver that.  

3: Right across the electorate residents would be able to name a road that is not just poorly maintained or congested but down right unsafe. No matter where we live we deserve to be able to hop in our vehicles and arrive at our destination safely. Labor's commitment to upgrades and repairs on roads in this electorate is long overdue, especially when you consider how many times I have raised the state of our major roads on the floor of the Queensland Parliament over my three terms as Member for Burdekin. 
 

4: An election should be about a clear choice for voters based on ideals, policies and commitments to those voters in the electorate. A campaign which is built on mudslinging and negative vitriol against another party's candidate quite often does more damage to that candidate's own campaign. 

5: Give my hard working staff some well-deserved time off!

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Anne Baker
Labor Candidate For Burdekin

1: Throughout its history, Labor has been a progressive force for workers and working families, especially for women, establishing many of the reforms and initiatives that continue to drive gender equality to this day. Without Labor, we wouldn’t have Medicare! I am a big believer in improving Healthcare without cuts. We need more hospital beds and more health workers, not less, plus returning Coal Royalties to region is the only way we are going to fix the Bruce Highway. I have already secured $157M in fully committed funding for the Peak Downs Highway and The Bruce Highway north of Bowen is next on my list.       
 
2: I have more than one commitment and they are not just promises. If elected my commitments will happen as the money is fully funded. Burdekin Netball Association Facilities redevelopment: $3.5m, Clermont Swimming Centre upgrade: $3.2m, Bowen Wood Turners Association: $10,000, Hinterland Community Care Funding: $42, 000, Burdekin’s Men’s Sheds: $40,000. TAFE pilot program: $10m,  Plus the $157M fully funded commitment to Burdekin Electorate Roads and the Peak Downs Highway.

3: Any promise or commitment that benefits regional communities is a positive. We need to ensure the Burdekin electorate is seen and heard by State and Federal Government, not looked over.   

4: Talking trash, No. Highlighting lack of representation or in some cases informing the public that a job could have possibly been done better is sometimes just a fact of life in politics as it can inform the voter to reconsider the current representation.   
 
5: After a long time in Local Government, 12 of those as Mayor, people who know me expect me to continually work for my community. If elected, after this campaign I may take half a day off before I officially start LOL! On a serious note, I will wholeheartedly support the Sugar Industry in their journey towards producing biofuels, bioplastics and other renewables to be sustainably produced replacements for fossil fuel-based products. I believe this is the way of the future for the industry, which may be unexpected for an ALP Candidate. I will fight to reduce electricity costs for farmers and fight to improve water quality and river health.  
 
Andrew Elborne
One Nation Candidate For Burdekin

1: Fixing the cost of living problems, the power problems and the youth programs - I am experienced in all of them.
 

2: Simplify legislation so the average citizen can follow it, stop having legislation written by Lawyers.

3: I am running for One Nation and our policies.

4: There is no place for trash talking other parties, it is disrespectful to everyone

5: Being a large electorate, I would probably retrofit a caravan and take the office on the road to be accessible to all my constituents

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For over seven years, A 2 Z Refrigeration & Air Conditioning has provided high-quality air conditioning and refrigeration services in the Whitsundays.

Known for their expert workmanship and competitive pricing, the company has a strong presence in the commercial sector and is now expanding to better serve domestic customers.

The owner Leo Lee, who moved to the area in 2011, has built a reputation for delivering excellent service.

“We offer top-quality workmanship, clear and easy communication, and reasonable pricing," he said.

A 2 Z’s experienced technicians are known for offering expert advice and fast, efficient solutions, with same-day service available thanks to their streamlined processes.

The company offers air conditioning units from trusted brands like Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Daikin, along with commercial refrigeration solutions and cold room installations.

With a focus on reliability and long-term performance, A 2 Z ensures customers receive the best value for their investment.

What makes A 2 Z stand out is its commitment to customer satisfaction without excessive overhead costs.

“We don’t invest in flashy display rooms, expensive vehicles, or heavy advertising,” said Leo.

“Instead, we focus on reducing unnecessary operational costs, so our customers can enjoy better value from our services.

“While other companies may pass their marketing expenses onto their customers, we prioritize affordability and top-quality service above all else.”

With the summer heat approaching Leo emphasized the importance of air conditioning for both comfort and asset protection.

“During the humid season, air conditioning helps protect your assets from mold issues, safeguarding both property and health," he said.

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A 2 Z Refrigeration & Air Conditioning can provide great service in the region, Stock image

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Since July 2021, 52 tourism businesses have engaged with the Whitsunday Healthy Heart Project (WHHP) and in the process of measuring their carbon footprints, gained a deeper understanding of the contribution that waste has on their overall carbon emissions (CO2-e).
The Whitsunday tourism sector has expressed an interest in discovering more about waste management, innovative waste solutions, recycling and in-region waste reduction activities.
To address this desire to learn more about how our region handles waste, the WHHP will be hosting a Free ‘Waste in the Whitsundays’ speaking event at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on Tuesday 12th November.
The Whitsunday tourism sector’s CO2-e measured to date, indicates that waste appears to contribute approximately 8% of overall carbon emissions generated via the operation of these businesses.
Waste-generated emissions are a complex mix of different gases created by the action of microorganisms within a landfill, generating landfill gas, which is approximately forty to sixty per cent methane, the remainder being mostly carbon dioxide.
Recycling plays a crucial role in reducing waste and thereby emissions, as using recycled materials to make new products reduces the need for virgin materials and the consumption of energy, which is used during manufacturing.
Mayor Ry Collins will be attending the event, stating “We are excited to welcome a diverse range of waste related specialist guest speakers to share their stories, educate and inspire us to continually improve our waste management.”
Speakers will include Whitsunday Regional Council, Mackay Material Recovery Facility, Eco Barge Clean Seas, Containers for Change, EcoBiz, Reef Catchments and Zero Waste Solutions. Keynote speaker, Steve Walpole from Reef Catchments, will be presenting a fascinating insight into the potential and impact of circular economies around resource recovery and recycling.
“Today we need about 1.75 planets to provide the resources for our consumption and absorb our waste. By 2030, we will need 2 planets. Our ability to design out waste and or make waste a valuable resource is inextricably linked to our planet’s greatest challenges.” Says Steve Walpole.
To register – Get a free ticket from the Proserpine Entertainment Centre website or buy a ticket in person during business hours.

What: Waste in the Whitsundays
When: Tuesday 12th November
Where: Proserpine Entertainment Centre
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Waste in the Whitsunday event

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Founded in 2001 as a division of PRD Whitsunday, Accom Whitsunday offers a diverse selection of holiday homes in Airlie Beach, nearby rural and coastal townships, and Hamilton Island. They take pride in delivering personalised service and exceptional accommodation that provide all the comforts of home.

Accom Whitsundays offers a full-service management option for owners including, letting, website representation, advertisement, cleaning, maintenance and guest management.

Liv Compton, has been property manager for Whitsunday Accom for just over three and a half years and explains how the big team of support is a huge contributor to the business success, and how being put up for the award means a lot to them:

“It is a celebration of all our hard work and dedication we put in throughout the year,” Liv explained.

“Being nominated validates that we are on the right path, always striving for improvement and growth.

“Being recognised sets us up for even greater success in the coming year.”

This is the third time that Whitsunday Accom will be at the Tourism Awards and in 2022 they won Bronze and in 2023 Silver.
This year, Whitsunday Accom has taken over management of 20 newly renovated hotel rooms at Beach Plaza. Whether you need management for a coastal home, a rural retreat, a pet-friendly getaway, or a luxury beach house, they have the expertise to help.
“What stood out in this year’s award submission is our enhanced focus on marketing,” said Liv.
“We’ve prioritised brand growth and awareness by actively engaging on social media, hiring a shared marketing coordinator with PRD, and creating branded products and giveaways, such as our Accom car, umbrellas, visors, and soap bars.”

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Whitsunday Accom’s Liv Compton

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Chloe Bauer, Managing Director of Birds Fish Bar, is proud to be the third generation in her family to work in the fishing industry, having begun her career at Bowen’s Fisherman’s Seafood Company in 2011.
In 2013, Chloe and her father, Brett Bauer, expanded to launch Birds fish bar, fostering the already strong bond with the local fishing community and honouring their family’s legacy.
“The fact that we are still family-owned and operated adds a personal touch, with over 45 years’ experience it reflects in the quality of the service and food,” Chloe enthused.

“Also, you just can’t beat Bird’s Fish Bar’s scenic marina setting, licensed bar, and traditionally paper-wrapped fish and chips.”

Chloe went on to say how proud of her team she is for the nomination:

“It means a lot to be recognised for the hard work and dedication we’ve put into not only providing top-quality seafood but also creating a memorable experience for our customers.

“For us, it’s not just about serving great food; it’s about showcasing the beauty and heritage of Bowen, supporting local fishermen, and contributing to the community.

“The nomination validates the efforts of three generations of our family and team who have worked tirelessly to make this business what it is today.

“It’s a reminder that we’re not just running a business, but we’re also helping put Bowen on the map as a must-visit destination for fresh seafood and a unique dining experience.”

Last year, Birds Fish Bar had the incredible honour of not only being nominated but also winning Best Business in Bowen, which Chloe stated was a huge achievement for them.

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Brett Bauer and Chloe Bauer, Birds Fish Bar

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Recently celebrating its 31st birthday, one of Australia’s most loved holiday parks, BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort, is nominated in two categories at this years’ Whitsunday Tourism Awards.
With nominations in the Caravan and Holiday Parks category and Excellence in Accessible Tourism category, BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort has won gold in the Caravan and Holiday Parks category for the past two years on a Whitsundays, Queensland and Australian level, meaning there is potential for the much-loved resort to enter the prestigious Hall of Fame this year.
Last year saw the inaugural launch of the Excellence in Accessible Tourism category, with BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort also winning gold in the both the local and state awards.
Owned by the McKinnon family, BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort is set amongst 26 acres of beautifully landscaped tropical gardens and offers the ultimate Whitsunday family holiday, with a range of quality accommodation from camp sites through to Studios and luxurious Three Bedroom Condos, alongside being home to over 15 onsite activities.
Owner Greg McKinnon said:
“Our team works hard to create wonderful holiday memories for our guests. It’s not just the big developments and projects, of which we have more coming, but all those little touches which make the difference.”
“Our concentration in the areas of accessibility and inclusivity has only enhanced our resort and its offerings.”
“By minimising possible obstacles that guests may otherwise face and by following a universal design for new projects, which is supported by a team who excel in their commitment to customer service, we are extremely proud of the overall experience we offer.”

The BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort team

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Bowen, a hidden gem at the top of the Whitsundays, features eight secluded beaches, stunning lookouts, scenic bushwalks, 27 murals, Queensland's oldest cinema, delicious seafood, and a beautiful oceanfront golf course—all enhanced by warm country hospitality.
It is one of very few places where you can snorkel directly off the beach.
The Bowen Visitor Information Centre is located next to the iconic Big Mango on the Bruce Highway, just 5km south of Bowen.
It is operated by Bowen Tourism and Business - a not-for-profit organisation supported by more than 200 members.
Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy has been promoting Bowen to domestic and international visitors as well as locals for more than three years.
She said the dedicated team always aimed to provide excellence in customer service and visitor experiences.
The organisation’s achievements in the past 12 months include a record number of visitors – more than 51,000 at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre and more than 5000 at the information booth at Bowen’s Front Beach.
“We continually look for ways to improve our services,” she said.
“In the past 12 months, we have introduced a ‘Driver Reviver’ service to promote road safety and we have continued to expand our range of local produce and Bowen merchandise.
Leanne said the team was proud to again be nominated for a tourism award.
Their past successes include two consecutive Gold Awards for Visitor Information Services at the Whitsunday Tourism Awards and a Bronze at the Queensland Tourism Awards. This year, Bowen also secured a Bronze in the Queensland Top Tourism Awards and was a finalist for the friendliest Grey Nomad town.

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The three full-time staff at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre – Cindy Tonks, Leanne Abernethy and Glenn Womal. Photo supplied

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Coral Sea Resort provides elegant accommodations with stunning views of the Coral Sea and convenient access to Coral Sea Marina, where guests can easily partake in a variety of water-based tourism activities.
Coral Sea Resort offers 77 rooms in 14 distinct styles, including luxurious penthouses, to accommodate a variety of guests. Additionally, the resort has made a $20 million investment in upgrades to enhance the overall guest experience.

Ricky Chang, has been front office manager at Coral Sea Resort for three and a half years, and absolutely loves his job and working on the waterfront:

“Arguably we have the best ocean views in Airlie Beach!”

Alongside the stunning views Coral Sea Resort has an extremely convenient location, being only a short walk from the main parts of town as well as having various tour meeting points nearby.

While the central location is one of the fantastic perks of staying at Coral Sea Resort, it is also distant enough for the guest to enjoy the tranquillity of the pool.

“Our team work hard every day and understand the high standard we set for ourselves,” Ricky explained.

“We consider our resort to be the number one place to stay in Airlie Beach, and we believe our guests feel the same way.

“Being nominated for this award recognises the hard work we put in and highlights the appreciation that everybody has for our Coral Sea Resort community.”

The team at Coral Sea Resort are all thrilled and proud to have been nominated for the prestigious Whitsunday Tourism Award, marking a milestone in their journey of excellence.

They added that this recognition reflects the hard work and dedication of their team.

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Coral Sea Resort Front Office Manager Ricky Chang

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Grand View Hotel is based in an outstanding location, close to Bowen’s front beach and iconic jetty. The Hotel also brings you a taste of the Whitsundays with their menu being a step above the average pub meal and showcasing the local produce that the region has to offer.

The Grand View Hotel fosters an aesthetic costal meets country vibe, which makes the place beautifully inviting to all its guests.

One of the key figures behind the magic of The Grand View Hotel is Venue Manager Emma Heiniger, who has been with the team for six months. Remarkably, the hotel itself has been delighting guests for an incredible 100 years and currently has 30-45 staff members, alongside the biggest outdoor digital screen that Bowen has to offer, showing a variety sporting events.

Emma explained how her team is looking forwards to the awards, and is proud of their nomination:

“Being nominated at the Tourism Awards is a huge recognition of our whole team's hard work.”

Although this isn't the first time the Grand View Hotel has been nominated for an award, it has previously been recognised as a finalist in several categories: in 2019 for Outstanding Contribution by a Volunteer or Volunteer Group; in 2022 for Outstanding Contribution by a Volunteer or Volunteer Group (Silver), and for Tourism Restaurants & Catering Services (Silver); and in 2023 for Excellence in Food Tourism (Silver).

Managers: Nellie Hore, Alex Tottey, Emma Heiniger

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The Whitsundays Tourism Awards have been running since 2002 and have evolved over the years becoming a highly sought-after award, some winners from 2002 are still winning gold today.

This year the Whitsundays Tourism Awards are on Daydream Island, and Tourism Whitsunday Interim Chief Executive Officer Aimee Cameron said it's amazing to see the island reach new heights and showcase the region’s beauty.

“Hosting our awards here highlights the exceptional Daydream Island and allows us to honour the island's history and connection to The Whitsundays,” she said.

“Celebrating our industry’s achievements in such an iconic and beloved location is truly a privilege.”

At this year's Whitsundays Tourism Awards, the event has shifted from the traditional gala dinner format to a formal networking, awards party-style event that celebrates everything about The Whitsundays.

There will be live entertainment and networking which will lead into the business awards program, presented in partnership with the Whitsunday Coast Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Bowen Tourism and Business.

Following the awards will be an evening of cocktails, food and dancing featuring DJ Brian from Whitsunday AV.

Plus a few surprises are in store.

Aimee is thrilled to announce that this year's Awards are sold out and believe it is a testament to the tourism industry.

“It highlights the strong belief that our operators, stakeholders, councils, and the community have in what Tourism Whitsundays is delivering for the region,” said Aimee.

“The energy around this event is a clear indication of the excitement and pride in our collective achievements, and we’re so proud to be part of such a passionate and united industry.”

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Tourism Whitsunday Interim Chief Executive Officer Aimee Cameron, Photo supplied

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Whitsunday Jetski Tours has been in operation for 14 years at Coral Sea Marina and has a fantastic crew of 15 with a 50/50 mix of men and women guides.
Experience the thrill with Whitsunday Jet Ski Tours! Ride the latest jet skis and wear top-quality gear, all included in your package. Stylish sunglasses and professional photos of your adventure are also covered, when they say everything is included – it is!
Whitsunday Jet Ski Tours prioritise safety and sustainability by using the latest equipment and recycling old gear, and their commitment to crew development ensures exceptional training, resulting in great guest experiences.
Team Leader Alex Cooney has been with the business four years, and believed the commitment to their team is the best equipment they have available:

“Getting brand new skis every year is a pretty good Christmas present! Having the best of the best means the guests in return receive the best! Best equipment, best trained guides, best experience!”

Alex explained what it means to the team to have been nominated:

“It means a lot! It's such a great way to be recognised for our commitment to our guests and providing the best experience possible every single tour.”

“Being nominated means all our hard work every day is worth it.”

Alex explained how this is the first time since he has been with Whitsunday Jet Ski Tours that they have been nominated and that they are extremely excited.

“It's such a pleasure to work at Whitsunday Jet Ski tours.”

“It's fun, professional, unique and every single tour is different.”

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Alex and guests enjoying the Whitsundays water

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Paul and Francine Tuddenham have been successfully managing Peninsula Airlie Beach since acquiring the management rights on July 1, 2021. Over the past three years, they have dedicated themselves to enhancing the guest experience and fostering a welcoming atmosphere for all.
What sets the Peninsula Airlie Beach apart from the rest is its customer service:
“Our customer service is paramount to us,” Paul explained.
“We go the extra mile to make our guests feel welcome. They are given a hamper for special occasions, and Fran can offer personalised service for the tour bookings.
“The units are large and fully self-contained, with large balconies that overlook the water.”
Alongside their top-notch customer service and beautiful self-contained units, the location of Peninsula Airlie Beach is unmatched, situated right on the Coral Sea and near Coral Sea Marina.
Peninsula has been nominated in the Whitsunday Tourism Awards, and Paul said he is thrilled to participate.
“It confirms to our guests—and potential guests—that the work we do and the service we provide is validated by a very trusted body, Tourism Whitsundays.”
Airlie Beach Peninsula has a strong awards history, winning the Tourism Whitsunday Customer Excellence Award and the ARAMA Residential Manager of the Year in its first year, with subsequent finalist placements. They’ve also received TripAdvisor awards and a 9.8 rating from Booking.com for customer reviews.
Paul and Francine don’t manage everything alone; they’re grateful for their part-time Office Manager, Dorothy, as well as Lex, their handyman and gardener, and Martie with her Eco Clean team, who handle the cleaning.

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Paul and Francine Tuddenham, the Managers Of Peninsula Airlie Beach. Photo supplied

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Marketing Specialist for Red Cat Adventures, Kelvin Ho, joined the team in February 2020, on a sponsorship, and is incredibly grateful for their support which led to his permanent residency approval in May 2024.

Kelvin explains what truly sets Red Cat Adventures apart from the rest is their unique culture:

“I work with incredible people every day,” Kelvin stated.

“The marine tourism industry allows me to learn from the ocean and boating community.”

“Our custom-designed vessels reflect Asher's extensive knowledge, tailored specifically for the Whitsundays to ensure optimal performance.”

“We're proud to be recognised as Climate Action Leaders and the only marine Savannah Guide Enterprise, highlighting our commitment to sustainability.”
“Our dedicated crew goes above and beyond to ensure our guests have unforgettable experiences.”
Kelvin mentioned how being nominated for a tourism award means the world to the Red Cat Adventures team.
“Each team member pours their heart and soul into their role, and this acknowledgement boosts our motivation and pride in our brand.”
Red Cat Adventures celebrated a major milestone in 2021 by receiving double Hall of Fame for Adventure Tourism and Major Tour and Transport Operator. Kelvin noted that Red Cats has had an impressive journey, winning numerous regional, state, and national gold tourism awards from 2018 to 2021, followed by a two-year break from nominations.
“In our award submission, we emphasised our innovative product development, marketing initiatives, and eco commitments. We also highlighted our community involvement and ability to evolve as a business.”

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Kelvin Ho Marketing Specialist at Red Cat

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Overseeing two nominated Whitsunday Regional Council owned assets – Whitsunday Coast Airport and Shute Harbour Marine Terminal – Craig Turner, Director of Commercial Business, says he is thrilled the two impressive local services are up for an award again this year.

The 73-year-old Whitsunday Coast Airport goes beyond typical airport services, with a dedicated customer service officer available for each arriving flight to assist passengers and answer questions. The airport features the impressive 35,000-litre Heart Reef Aquarium, providing a warm welcome to visitors.

Meanwhile, Shute Harbour Marine Terminal, the closest port to the Whitsunday Islands, hosts many marine tours and is increasingly favoured by cruise ships, welcoming 80,000 visitors last year. Originally a tourism port since 1961, it was redeveloped and reopened in 2021 after damage from Tropical Cyclone Debbie.

Craig has been working with Whitsunday Coast Airport and Shute Harbour Marine Terminal for six years, and is very proud of their nominations:

“To be highlighted at this high level in industry is a testament to the hard work and dedication each and every one gives to their role.”

“Regardless of outcome, we all have a common goal – to provide a high level of service to tourists and visitors, enhancing their Whitsundays experience.”

Whitsunday Coast Airport has previously entered the awards seven times, winning gold the last two years, while Shute Harbour Marine Terminal is entering for the third year, having won bronze and silver previously.

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Craig Turner, Director of Commercial Business for Whitsunday Regional Council

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