We wish all boaties a safe and enjoyable summer break, and hope that you will not need our ser-vices. But if you do, our dedicated and committed volunteers are available 24/7/365, saving lives at sea.

PREPARATION – One of the keys to safety on the water

The key to safety in a small boat is PREPARATION. Always do all your normal pre-departure checks before leaving home, and again before leaving the boat ramp.

If you are towing a trailer any distance, you will need to have the trailer tyres (treads and pres-sures) and wheel bearings checked. Don’t just walk round and give the wheels a kick. Ensure that the trailer lights work correctly, and rig a tarp or net over the boat to keep everything safely inside the boat. Clean out the fuel tank/s, filters and lines and fill with fresh fuel. Get the engine serviced regularly; double check the batteries and connections. Carry at least basic spares and tools, and know how to use them.

Especially check your normal safety gear (EPIRB, flares, life jackets, V-sheet, etc). Check the Ma-rine Safety Queensland (MSQ) website if you are not sure what is required. We strongly recom-mend the wearing of PFDs or lifejackets in smaller vessels - that simple step may save your life, as well as the lives of your passengers. You must know where the lifejackets are stored, and how to put them on. That simple step may save your life in an emergency.

MSQ refers to “partially smooth waters”.  In the Whitsundays this includes the area from Bowen in the north to south of Midge Point (and generally one nautical mile beyond the main is-lands).  A Partially Smooth Waters map is available for download on the MSQ website.  For infor-mation on safety equipment and licensing regulations, you are advised to check with Maritime Safety Queensland for up to date and accurate information. More detailed links can also be found on the BOATING page on our website  http://vmrwhitsundays.com.au/boating-in-the-whitsundays/

We strongly encourage the use of VHF radio around the islands and further afield, the coverage is much better than a mobile phone. If you do need to call for assistance, the boatie that might be in the next bay can hear you! But you do need to know how to use your VHF – a common error is poor adjustment of the squelch control, effectively stopping you from hearing any transmissions.

The emergency channels are 16 and 67, and we have repeaters on Whitsunday Island (81) and Hayman (82). The repeaters are monitored during the day by the bareboat companies.

Make sure your anchor and rope are in good condition. We recommend at least double the boat length of chain before the rope, and remember that coral and rope don’t get on very well. You will need to use a scope of at least 4:1 (4 times the depth).

Never, Never, Never, underestimate your fuel consumption. Take as an absolute minimum, 25 per cent extra, 50 per cent would be safer, and take it every trip.  Always fill your tanks before you leave, and if you get back to the ramp with less than 25 per cent in your tank you have got it wrong!

Always check the weather forecast and tides (they can be big in the Whitsundays) before you go, and tell someone where you are going, and when you will be back.

VMRW membership is cheap insurance at just $90. You can join online at https://vmrwhitsundays.com.au/join/ and your membership helps to keep us going in case you need us. We hope you don’t, but we are here 24/7/365 if you do!

Contributed with thanks to VMR Whitsundays.

By Rachael Smith

The highly anticipated Whitsunday Skyway is set to gain momentum in 2024 and, with firm plans in place, all that remains is to secure the project’s final approvals and finalization of the investment structure. Once this occurs, the Whitsundays could be just two years away from welcoming its largest piece of on-land infrastructure which will completely change the landscape of tourism in the region.

The base station of the Skyway’s cable car structure will be located a short walk from Airlie Beach. It will take guests to a summit within the Conway Ranges where they can marvel at incredible 360-degree views of the Coral Sea and Whitsunday Islands. Never before has it been possible to give every visitor easy access to one of the best aspects of our region.

Unprecedented Mainland Infrastructure Project

With over 600,000 visitors coming to the Whitsunday region every year - many of them on the 100 plus cruise ships that are expected to arrive in 2024 - it is evident that an on-land activity would boost the visitor experience, especially on a rainy day.

It is with this impetus that local tourism pioneer, Elizabeth Hackett, Executive Chair of the Australian Adventure Tourism Group, decided to create the Whitsunday Skyway as a transformational project which will leave an unparalleled legacy for the region, that the AATG Board is determined to bring to fruition.

Set to attract a diverse range of adventure and leisure seekers, the Skyway will offer much more than a cable car ride to the summit.

Guests can choose from a casual two-hour experience or a multi-day adventure experience.

Immerse themselves in the educational and cultural activities at the Summit Station.

Explore the bush tracks, ride down the hillside on the mountain bike trails, take a luge cart ride, or enjoy the challenge of the junior ropes course.

This dynamic and creative offering will bring a wealth of options to the region’s visitors and Chief Executive Officer of Tourism Whitsundays Rick Hamilton, says he is excited to throw his support behind the project.

"Tourism Whitsundays is a huge supporter of Whitsunday Skyway,” he shared.

“This is the largest piece of private tourism infrastructure we've seen built in The Whitsundays for a long time and the benefits this project will bring to the area are incredible.

“We are all waiting, as patiently as we can, for the day we can finally celebrate the approvals.”

The inspiring driving force behind the project is AATG, chaired by Elizabeth Hackett who has nursed the seed of the idea for the past 25 years, forming a more concrete plan over the last seven years.

“It was Cyclone Debbie that became the catalyst to advance the project,” said Elizabeth.

“The cyclone highlighted to the Regional and State Industry and Government bodies that Airlie Beach and the Whitsunday Region is significantly reliant on marine tourism activities.

“When these tourism activities are not able to meet the needs of visitors, the region was left in a vulnerable position.

“A need for a land-based attraction has been repeatedly highlighted by the tourism sector and is strongly supported by stakeholders in the region.”

At this stage the Skyway is in the detailed assessment stage under the Queensland Government’s Exclusive Transactions Framework and a process deed has been signed with the State specific conditions that must be addressed before they consider granting land tenure for the project.

It has taken several years of patient negotiation to reach this stage and Elizabeth is feeling hopeful that permission will be granted this year.

Once all approvals are confirmed, it will take between 18 months and two years for construction to be complete.

During this time 400 full-time staff will be needed for construction and, once the project is complete, 140 new jobs will be needed for operation.

A further 591 indirect jobs are also expected.

The Skyway is projected to bring around $38.4 million of new spending per annum, which would have a net overall impact on the economy of $27.6 million after approximately three years.

It is also anticipated that the Skyway has the potential to lengthen the region’s visitation by between 0.25 and one bed nights per visitor.

Currently looking for sophisticated investors, Whitsunday Skyway is now seeking $5-$6 million to deliver a de-risked project, ready for the final investment strategy to be concluded later this year.

“This will be a benchmark tourist attraction,” explained Elizabeth.

“To date this project has received enormous support from all stakeholders, we look forward to its continued support as the project progresses the approval process.

“On our watch, we will achieve it!”

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An aerial view of the Whitsunday Skyway showing the location of the project. Photo supplied

Chief Executive Officer of Tourism Whitsundays Rick Hamilton, Publicity and Communication Executive of Tourism Whitsundays, Cait Fleming and Elizabeth Hackett, Executive Chair of the Australian Adventure Tourism Group. Photo credit: Jake Greenfield.

Student Council Executives

Amber Van Moolenbroek

Being a leader allows Amber to give back to her school, and she says it “fosters my own self-improvement.”

“The role of a student leader, as I see it, is to be a role model. To inspire students, no matter their learning styles, to be prepared for all things.”

Jesselyn Hynard

“I desire to see change within my school community, by creating an environment that encourages engagement and equality.”

Eager to get into the role, Jesselyn has already introduced a cooking club, and “A program that would allow for students to develop their out of school skills, while providing them with funded meals and an environment to build friendships.”

Elizabeth Menzies

Arts Captain

Jasmine Dunkerton

Wishing to give back to the school that influenced her so much, Jasmine is excited to get started promoting the arts.

“I wanted to give back to the school as well as being a drama student. There are not too many opportunities in small towns to become an actor and more,” she said.

“My role is for all students in music, drama, and art, to take on their idea’s listen to make 2024 an important year for their future careers.”

Charley Petersen

Kennedy Vice and House Captains

Ethan Jones

For Ethan, being a leader means expanding his skills and assisting the school.

“I am definitely most proud of being a leader in 2024, that can push the potential of others around them to do great work and be great people.”

Shanayd Otto

Shanayd aims to be a leader to assist students and bring about a positive influence on their lives.

“As a leader in 2024, I will be proud to see more people at all the good events the school has and hopefully having a positive impact on people.”

Cook Vice and House Captains

Annabelle Payne

Annabelle sees the role of a student leader as very serious and fulfilling.

“An initiative I will pursue as a leader in 2024, is to make carnivals as fun as they can be and promote school spirit that all students at BSHS want to be a part of.”

Tyler Jankowski

Sturt House Captain

Abel Cookson

Abel wants to aspire students to take part and have fun in all aspects of school, promoting healthy living, sport, and school activities and events.

And of course: “I am proud to be leading our school sports house, Sturt, to an epic victory in 2024!”

Kelise Gobbert

Drink Driving Of A Vessel, Airlie Beach

A 34-year-old Jubilee Pocket man has been arrested and charged by police following an alleged incident at about 3:35pm on January 1 in Airlie Beach.

Police were located at New Beach on an unrelated matter when they intervened the man, who had just travelled to New Beach in a vessel.

Following this conversation, the 34-year-old was arrested outright for operating the vessel while under the influence of liquor.

He was taken to the Whitsunday police station and following further analysis his breath alcohol concentration was alleged to be 0.171%.

He was charged with being under the influence of liquor while operating a vessel, operating a vessel while holding a disqualified licence and operating an unregistered vessel.

Unlawful Possession Of Fireworks, Airlie Beach

A 34-year-old male resident of Manoora has been served with a notice to appear in court by police following an alleged incident at 10:45pm on December 31 on Shute Harbour Road in Airlie Beach.

It is alleged that fireworks were let off at a venue on Shute Harbour Road, Airlie Beach. Security officers intervened and contacted police.

Upon police arrival it is alleged officers spoke with the male and then located a bag of fireworks in his nearby parked car.

He was issued with a notice to appear for the offence of unlawful possession of fireworks.

House Fire, Bowen

A single storey home in Bowen erupted in flames at 11.15pm on December 29.

The fire was quickly contained at the home, on Richmond Road, with two Queensland Fire and Emergency Services attending.

The sole occupant of the home was taken to Bowen Hospital, and Queensland Police have declared the fire non-suspicious.

The famous Bowen mango man, Patrick Martin, and his wife Sylvie have stepped away from their iconic mango sorbet business, after more than 25 years.

Patrick arrived in Australia from France in 1971, travelling via boat and landing at Shepperton. He initially lived in Bowen and picked tomatoes before he decided to travel around Australia.

He landed back in Bowen after some time and met his soon-to-be wife, Sylvie, also from France.

They met while picking Bowen tomatoes and have never looked back.

From here, the pair become integral to the Bowen community, opening Patrick and Sylvie’s Restaurant for a number of years before heading off on travels again.

Back in Bowen, the pair were selling French pastries at Airlie Beach Foreshore Markets when they met another man making fruit sorbets.

“And I was like ‘That’s a bloody good idea!’” Patrick explained.

Once having the equipment, Patrick and Sylvie began with all sorts of fruits, however, after two years, the mango was proving the most popular.

“And that’s when Mango Sorbets were born.”

Using the Bowen Special, Kensington Pride Mangoes, the Mango Sorbets are purely sweet and delicious, and Patrick couldn’t tell you how many sorbets he’s made in his 25-year career.

13 years ago, Patrick and Sylvie signed on to supply Bowen Information Centre with Bowen Mango Sorbet.

This past calendar year alone, the Bowen Information Centre has sold more than 23,500 mango sorbets and have likely supplied the Centre with over two million sorbets for the past 13 years.

“Patrick and Sylvie have been supplying these delicious treats to the Bowen Visitor Information Centre on a weekly, and sometime daily, basis for so many years,” explained Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy.

Patrick and Sylvie have handed the reins to Bowen local, Stackelroth Farms, and are excited to ease into relaxation, and travel wherever and whenever he and Sylvie can.

Leanne describes the sale of the sorbet business as the end of an era but said she was looking forward to working with the girls from Stackelroth Farms.

“Patrick is a real character and we always looked forward to his delivery of sorbets as the whole team has such a great working relationship with him.

“We thank Patrick and Sylvie for their excellent service to the Bowen Visitor Information Centre and wish them both well in retirement.”

“We also congratulate Stackelroth Farms on taking on the supply of this iconic Bowen product.

“Although the business is under new ownership, we know the sorbets are still 100 per cent natural and made from Kensington Pride mangoes grown here in Bowen.”

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Sylvie and Patrick Martin handing the reigns of Bowen Mango Sorbet with Stackelroth Farms. Photos supplied

Budget airline Bonza is in hot water, with a series Christmas and New Year flight cancellations, disrupting holiday plans and causing chaos for travellers.

Earlier in 2023, Bonza announced a new airline hub in the Gold Coast, connecting much of east coast Australia with affordable flights, however, the launch flight from Whitsunday Coast Airport, scheduled for December 7, was postponed a number of times, before the airline was successful able to take to the airs.

Initially, the delays were due to Bonza leasing two Canadian planes and crew, and the necessary checks required from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority.

However, the eventual approval received for these two aircrafts has a caveat.

Bonza is only able to utilise these planes until March 2024.

Bonza CEO Tim Jordan said that “Bonza has received regulatory approval for the two additional aircraft to service flights out of our Gold Coast base.”

“And we’re scaling up our operations so we can service new routes like Mackay and Whitsundays. We’re committed to the Mackay and Whitsundays region and will remain focused on delivering low-cost air travel that is reliable and refreshingly different for our customers,” he said.

“Aviation in Australia is just about the most concentrated business sector in Australia with 94 per cent in the hands of two airline groups, an effective duopoly. We’re really in a Shazza vs Goliath battle to get more choice and lower fares to Australians. However, that road won’t be easy and occasionally we’ll get things wrong, and we will learn from that.”

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Bonza cancelled a series of flights from the region, disrupting holiday plans. Image supplied

Technology may have changed the way we plan our daily lives but many people still like a good old fashioned calendar to hang on the wall.

A traditional calendar gives you the chance to see at a glance who has a birthday coming up and add other appointments on the go for all in the household to see.

It also a great chance to display lovely photos and the 2024 Bowen calendar is the perfect example.

For the first time last year, Bowen Tourism and Business produced a calendar with photos of Bowen’s beaches and other landmarks.

The calendars proved so popular that the team at Bowen Tourism decided to produce another calendar.

This 13 month calendar starts in January 2024 and includes January 2025.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said these calendars made perfect gifts and had already proved popular over the festive season.

“If you haven’t got you copy yet, we encourage you to call in at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre next to the Big Mango, just 5km south of the town.”

The calendars are also available at other outlets around Bowen.

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Ellie Palmero and Leanne Abernethy from Bowen Tourism and Business with the 2024 calendars. Image supplied

Happy New Year to the Whitsundays business community, our broader community and all our wonderful visitors!

Despite the heat, a great vibe is clearly evident around town.

Seeing as it is a new year, it’s a great time to think about what your business resolutions might look like.

Business resolutions are commitments businesses make to improve their strategy, operations, or processes. Like personal New Year's resolutions, business resolutions can help prioritise goals or activities that may have got swept aside in 2023 or provide some inspiration or renewed interest in improving some aspect of your business.  

The start of the calendar year is ideal opportunity to look at existing processes with fresh eyes, review customer and staff feedback, and explore new possibilities and opportunities.

In 2024, the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry will continue to build on 2023’s achievements. Last year was an important year for the Chamber as we revitalised our strategy and operations to drive sustainable business growth and connectivity for our members.

In the year ahead, we look forward to hosting the inaugural Whitsundays Business Conference (Friday 31 May) that will bring the region’s business community and stakeholders together for a day of education, inspiration, celebration, and connection.

We will also be launching some new and exclusive opportunities for our members including a roundtable program to exchange knowledge and ideas, a service to support business grant applications and the opportunity to partner with the Chamber for grants, and a potential industrial relations service to ensure our members are informed and compliant to new workplace changes coming.

Here’s to a prosperous and rewarding 2024.

Four new police officers have hit the ground running in the Mackay and Whitsunday District and can now say they have the busy Christmas and New Year period under their belt.

The four new officers have a range of experience and knowledge behind them and bolster the expertise and ground crew of the region’s officers.

Constable Erin North, posted to the Mackay Police Station, previously worked in administration in Brisbane.

Constable Dan Larose, posted to the Bowen Police station, has worked as a diesel fitter and was also a QRL referee in Gladstone.

Constable Darcie Jones, posted to the Mackay Northern Beaches Police Station, comes from Kingaroy where she worked in administration.

Constable Peter Coker, posted to the Mackay Police Station, comes from Brisbane where he worked as a supervisor.

These officers underwent a 10-week application process before completing eight months of academy training, at Brisbane’s Oxley campus, of the Queensland Police Service Academy.

The Officers are now a part of the First Year Constable Program, and will receive further development and training, primarily on the job. The program encompasses eight-week mentorship, with an experience Field Training Officer, to learn and develop the basic competencies of General Duties policing.

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The four new Mackay and Whitsunday Region police officers. Photo supplied

Since its inception as a leading counselling and support organisation, Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network has stood by it’s community grounded roots, of being present for every single resident and community member in the Whitsundays region, and providing support in every facet of mental health.

Established in 2016, Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN) aims to be a haven for anyone who is struggling with mental health, by removing stigma, raising awareness, and opening the opportunity for free and productive conversation.

With the Whitsundays recognised as being above state and national average in suicide number and over the years, WSPN, as an organisation, has grown and developed into the hub that it is today, so support mental health and suicide prevention, much of the Whitsundays community have gotten behind the organisation.

“Community support and donations assists us to continue those in our community who need the help,” explained Mel Turner, Committee Member and Secretary of Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network.

“And for all the support, we are grateful.”

Just in 2023, Lions Club of the Whitsundays pledged a portion of proceeds from their annual Lions Golf Day, gifting WSPN with $4,000 to fund counselling services, including post-suicide resilience counselling.

Horsepower Heroes, a not-for-profit organisation that raises awareness and funds for mental health in the Whitsunday region, gifted close to over $10,000 across the year, from their annual Horsepower Heroes Day and other events.

Fight Night, organised and hosted by PCYC Whitsundays named WSPN a beneficiary of the event, and Blokes in Business, a men’s group who regularly meet, continue to donate to WSPN, in order to help fund the array of services offered.

“It’s amazing the support we are gifted from the community, which we invest back into the community to support mental health, suicide prevention, and counselling,” Ms Turner said.

For those seeking assistance or support, here are just a small sample of the services available from Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network:

Aided by community support, WSPN have been able to further develop and engage with the community.

Yearly, WSPN host and fund the b kinder Programs in the region’s schools, to promote kindness. WSPN also hosts b kinder Day, on June 22, in the region’s schools, to further establish the need for kindness, connection, inclusivity and positivity.

WSPN have also partnered with the North Queensland Toyota Cowboys to deliver the Resilience Project across the region’s early learning centres and schools. The Resilience Project aims to deliver positive mental health strategies to prevent mental ill-health and build young people’s capacity to deal with adversity and it’s been proven to work.

In recent years alone, WSPN have been able to donate $14,000 for The Resilience Project, to support the introduction of the Early Years Program into the region's early learning centres.  

“With our early year’s intervention programs, we are investing back into our region’s schools and our kids,” Ms Turner said.

“We fund and offer these programs to the schools at no cost, which is allowing amazing resources to be accessible for our kids.”

Breathwork is paramount to aiding and supporting people through the challenges they face daily, with WSPN hosting Breathwork Sessions across the region for everyone in the community.

“Using our facilitators, we can offer breathwork sessions free for the community,” said Ms Turner.

Breathwork has been identified to help connect the body and mind, reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.

Every year, in September, WSPN host a memorial service, for those lost due to suicide. This community memorial is a way for people impacted by suicide to come together, connect and reconnect in the spirit of hope, comfort, and inspiration. This annual community memorial aligns with World Suicide Prevention Day and promotes group connection and healing following a loved one’s suicide.

WSPN offer free counselling for post-suicide resilience, for loved ones and others impacted by a recent suicide or suicide attempt. These counselling services are free for recipients, funded by WSPN.

“If we are aware, we can contact the individual, or the Police may forward our contacts onto the loved ones,” Ms Turner explained.

“Or they can directly reach out and contact us, so we can begin to assist them.”

Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network also offers free Suicide Prevention Training, delivered by Community Response to Eliminate Suicide (CORES). These free training sessions are funded by WSPN and allow community members to be trained and educated on suicide behaviours, such as signs to recognise, how to support, and how to promote help-seeking behaviours.

The training also provides self-care strategies, in order to look after themselves.

“The Suicide Prevention Training is also faucet of suicide prevention that we deliver to the community,” explained Ms Turner.

“We reinvest back into the community to fund and deliver this training, reinvesting into mental health, suicide prevention and support. By making this training free and accessible to the community, we are getting invaluable knowledge and education into the community.”

To learn more about Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network, to donate, and to access their services, visit their website https://wspn.org.au/, or their Facebook page.

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Lions Club of Whitsundays donation to WSPN, from their annual Charity Golf Day

Horsepower Heroes supporting WPSN

Blokes in Business enjoying a beer and donating to WSPN. Photos supplied

The Whitsundays is currently in the midst of stinger season, with many popular beaches falling prey to jellyfish.

As the waters warm up, typically from November to May, the region becomes a hotspot for various species of jellyfish, posing a potential threat to swimmers and beachgoers. Adding to the challenge, northerly winds during this period can exacerbate the situation. Understanding the dynamics of jellyfish season and taking preventative measures is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience in this tropical paradise.

Jellyfish, including the infamous box jellyfish and the less venomous but still troublesome irukandji, thrive in warmer waters. The northerly winds that sweep across the Coral Sea during this season bring these gelatinous creatures closer to the shores. To stay safe, it is essential to be aware of local warnings and closures, which are typically communicated through signs, lifeguards, and official announcements.

Preventative measures include wearing protective clothing such as stinger suits, designed to minimize skin exposure to potential jellyfish stings. Applying vinegar to tentacle stings helps neutralize toxins. It's also advisable to swim in designated safe areas, as some beaches may have protective enclosures or stinger nets in place.

In addition to protective measures, staying informed about weather conditions and heeding advice from local authorities is paramount. By taking these precautions, residents and visitors can continue to enjoy the beauty of the Whitsunday’s beaches while minimizing the risks associated with jellyfish season and northerly winds.

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The typical sign outlining the dangers of stingers. Photo supplied

A 51-year-old man has unfortunately passed away, following a drowning off Shingley Beach in Cannonvale.

Just after midday on New Year’s Day, January 1, emergency services were dispatched to Shingley Drive, Cannonvale, near Coral Sea Marina, with reports of a near drowning.

One crew from the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services attended the scene, alongside Police to assist.

“Resuscitation was attempted,” a Queensland Fire and Emergency Services spokesperson said, “However, the man was declared deceased at the scene.”

The man’s death has been deemed non-suspicious by police however the authorities will present their report to the coroner.

In 2023, 281 individuals lost their lives to drowning in Australian waterways, with 77 per cent of deaths male, and 57 per cent of deaths over the age of 45 years old.

As the weather warms up, it is paramount that everyone is safe in our region’s waters.

For residential homes, be sure to have a sturdy, latch-able gate that completely encloses the pool, and supervise the pool closely, especially with children.

For fishing or boating activities, wear a correctly fitted lifejacket and learn CPR, and be knowledgeable of the risks of natural waters. Check weather forecasts and water conditions.

Avoid drinking alcohol or other stimulants and have a buddy system if in unfamiliar waters or experiencing adverse water conditions.

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The man was declared deceased at the scene. Photo supplied

With a bustling marine terminal full of happy holidaymakers embarking on a range of fantastic experiences, Cruise Whitsundays is the gateway to the islands, the Great Barrier Reef and the wide variety of on-water activities our region is known for. Whether it is snorkelling the coral gardens, stargazing from a glamping tent 39 nautical miles out to sea or walking along the silica sands of Whitehaven Beach, Cruise Whitsundays transform bucket-list items into reality for over 800,000 visitors every year.

Celebrating 20 successful years in business in 2024, Cruise Whitsundays operates 27 commercial vessels, 11 of which run between five departure points and offer 14 different day tours. Covering a diverse range of experiences, Cruise Whitsundays pride themselves on offering a tour or experience for every taste, budget and ability. Transferring holidaymakers between resort islands, voyaging to the outer Great Barrier Reef and Heart Pontoon or embarking on a full-day or half-day tour to Whitehaven Beach – the range of options is almost endless!

At the heart of Cruise Whitsundays’ operation is the incredible team of people that make every experience unique. From the Master Reef Guides to reservations consultants, the skippers to the crew, the café staff to the operations team, every staff member plays an important and pivotal role in the successful and streamlined delivery of each experience. At the foundation of the Cruise Whitsundays operation is culture and community, these two cornerstones intrinsically linked to the success of this highly acclaimed marine tour operator.

A multi-award winning company, Cruise Whitsundays has won a series of awards at the regional, state and even national level. Always innovating and striving to be at the forefront of holiday experiences in the Whitsundays, the company is consistently considered to be one of the best operations in the region. In 2023, they won Gold for the Unique Accommodation category at the Whitsunday Tourism Awards and then backed this up with a Bronze at the state awards in the same category.

Focusing on quality experiences and delivering excellence across every aspect of their operations, Cruise Whitsundays are also leaders in environmental sustainability and community connection. At the core of their business is ensuring that many processes are undertaken with limited carbon footprint, whether that be introducing a new water management system or recycling all on-board waste.

The company is also a significant contributor to the monitoring and surveillance of the reef. They employ several Master Reef Guides and participate in initiatives such as Whitsunday Health Heart and Eye on the Reef. They also have an Advanced Eco Certification and are on the Whitsunday Whale Steering Committee, constantly driving to preserve the pristine natural environment in which they work.

While they employ 220 direct staff, Cruise Whitsundays also indirectly support 87 valued suppliers and contractors, who all contribute to the fabric of the business. As a result of this wide-reaching network, Cruise Whitsundays are highly entrenched in the local community and big supporters of sporting teams, local events and other charities. They frequently sponsor events such as The Great Barrier Reef Festival, support operations at Eco Barge Clean Seas and often donate raffle prizes to a wide range of causes.

A dynamic mover within the tourism industry, Cruise Whitsundays aims to excel and exceed expectations at every turn. Whether that be on delivering quality products, championing community causes or driving environmental sustainability - there are multiple avenues that lead towards the extensive 20-year story of success for this inspiring local company.

With 14 different day tours from 11 different departure points, Cruise Whitsundays has created a spectacular selection of experiences for guests to enjoy. Travel 39 nautical miles out to sea for a Reefsleep adventure, cruise to Whitehaven Beach and wander the silica sands or jump aboard an island transfer. Whatever your dream is, it can be achieved with Cruise Whitsundays.

Snorkel, swim and dive the remote Hardy Reef on the dedicated Cruise Whitsundays pontoon. This fully-equipped floating structure allows you to explore the reef at your leisure – stay dry in the semi-submarine with intimate views of the coral gardens, discover the underwater observatory or get wet with a snorkel safari.

With the Heart Pontoon as your base, enjoy the comfort and convenience of a buffet lunch and sumptuous morning and afternoon tea while ensconced in the jaw-dropping natural surrounds. For those dreaming of star-gazing the night away, elect to stay onboard for a glamping experience at Reefsleep or splash out and become a guest at Australia’s only underwater hotel, waking-up to the vibrant coral gardens.

Cruising to Whitehaven Beach daily, tours aboard the comfortable air-conditioned catamarans offer a quick and easy trip to arguably the most beautiful beach in the world. Choose from a full or half-day tour and spend hours relaxing in the calm turquoise water or walk along the cool silica sands. Take a short bush walk to Hill Inlet Lookout and admire the ever-changing swirling sands that grace postcards sent all around the world.

For the avid sailors, Camira sailing catamaran is an ideal choice. Harness the wind and sail the azure waters of the Whitsundays on board the impressive Camira, a speedy 85ft ocean-going catamaran. Choose between a sunset cruise or a day-tour, then sit back and relax, enjoy the all-inclusive alcohol and beverage and delicious food offerings.

For the island-hoppers out there, cruise to Hamilton Island for a round of golf or simply explore the island at your own pace. Discover the specular island bushwalks, cuddle a koala at the zoo or explore Catseye Beach.

With all your holiday needs covered, Cruise Whitsundays will look after you.

It has been a whirlwind over the past nine years for Leshia Krushka, Customer Service and Sales Manager with Cruise Whitsundays. And that’s to say, she has loved every single second of her time.

Leshia fondly remembers when Cruise Whitsundays operated from Shute Harbour before they relocated to Port of Airlie, and the great expansion that the business has seen in recent times.

“I have been so lucky to see the growth of Cruise Whitsundays, welcoming new vessels to the fleet, the launch of Reefworld with the Reefsuites, introducing new products and experiences to our guests,” Leshia explained.

Pro-active does not begin to describe Leshia, ensuring the very best for Cruise Whitsundays passengers and guests, as well as standing with the wider Whitsundays community in times of emergency.

“I think one of the key moments in my time at Cruise Whitsundays was how the team and communities rallied to support each other and then rebuild after Cyclone Debbie,” Leshia shared.

Describing herself a “multi-tasker extraordinaire”, Leshia is proud to be with Cruise Whitsundays, and “becoming a part of a Australia’s largest experiential tourism providers.”

When she isn’t busy at the helm of Cruise Whitsundays’ front desk operations, she is at home with her beloved family, her husband and her two young daughters, and the family’s two cats.

“I just love getting into the kitchen and cooking up a storm, or lazing by the pool with a sneaky cocktail, but I am also very busy chasing my two beautiful girls around and juggling their needs,” she said.