The Whitsunday Tourism Awards took a bold new direction this year, shifting away from the traditional, time-consuming written submission format in favour of alignment with the Best of Queensland Experience Program (BOQEP).

This updated model now mirrors the approach adopted across much of Queensland, with winners assessed based on real-world results — including verified online reviews, customer feedback, accreditation standards, and industry engagement.

In the past, operators were required to submit written entries of up to 10,000 words to compete. While thorough, this often proved a barrier for smaller businesses lacking the time or resources to complete submissions that truly reflected their quality and impact.

Driving the change is Julie Telford, Chair of the Board of Tourism Whitsundays and former owner of Red Cat Adventures, now Business Development Manager for SeaLink Whitsundays, which employs over 140 staff.

Speaking on the night, as both Chair of the Board and a long-time operator, Telford acknowledged that under the previous format, the awards had become a bit predictable, with the same businesses – including her own – being recognised year after year.

“This change was about levelling the playing field and celebrating operators who consistently deliver exceptional experiences every day. For too long, some outstanding businesses missed out simply because they lacked the time or resources for lengthy submissions,” she stated.

“This new approach provides everyone with a fair chance and shifts the focus back to where it belongs — on the guest experience. It acknowledges the real-world impact operators are making, from positive customer feedback to engagement within the wider tourism community."

While there was initial apprehension about the shift in format, the overall reception on the night was positive, with many attendees praising the fairness and simplicity of the new model.

Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth strongly endorsed the changes during his address, highlighting the region’s exceptional participation in the BOQEP program. He pointed out that while Brisbane has 350 operators involved, the Whitsundays — despite being a small regional area — has an impressive 123, reinforcing the region’s position as a leader in Queensland tourism.

The 2025 Whitsunday Tourism Awards not only celebrated excellence but also marked the start of a more accessible and inclusive future for the region’s tourism operators. The new format puts the spotlight back where it belongs — on the customer experience — and sends a strong message: the Whitsundays continues to lead the way in Queensland tourism.

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The Whitsunday business community will come together next month to celebrate innovation, leadership, and community spirit at the 2025 Whitsunday Business Awards, recognising 70 outstanding nominees across ten award categories.

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

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

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the Whitsundays’ business sector continues to set a benchmark for regional excellence, innovation, and resilience.

“The Whitsundays has always been a place where local businesses punch well above their weight by combining creativity, community pride and the kind of tropical spirit that keeps people coming back,” Mayor Collins said.

“From Bowen to Collinsville, and from Proserpine to Airlie Beach, our business community is the beating heart of our economy.”

Alan Milostic, President of the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said “These Business Awards are an opportunity to recognise the businesses and individuals going above and beyond.”

“We know that when we celebrate our businesses, we inspire others to grow, create jobs, and build a stronger regional economy for everyone. We look forward to celebrating everyone at the event in November.”

Jo Shepherd from the Bowen Chamber of Commerce said the Whitsunday Business Awards are more than just recognition, they are a celebration of resilience, innovation, and community spirit.

“They offer our region a unique window into the journeys behind local success stories, shining a light on the determination, challenges, and growth that help shape our business community. Congratulations to all nominees.”

2025 Whitsunday Business Awards – Nominees

Best of the Whitsundays: Business of the Year

For an outstanding business that sets the gold standard for excellence, innovation and leadership in the region.

• Airlie Beach Hotel
• Airlie Beach Tourism
• Birds Fish Bar
• Mana Skin Body & Soul
• Maroona Gardens
• Ocean Rafting
• Whitsunday Life Newspaper

Business Leader of the Year

Recognising an inspiring leader whose vision, dedication and influence have driven exceptional business and regional success.

• Garry Matthias, Corrsafe Enterprises
• Jenny Rush, Aquatic Rush
• Kellee Fogg, Whitsunday Law
• Robert Congo, Yooribaya Cultural Experience

Rising Star: Employee, Apprentice or Trainee

Highlighting an exceptional individual who has demonstrated outstanding growth, dedication and contribution.

• Aaron Murphy, Down to Earth Whitsundays
• Allen Bauer, Bird’s Fish Bar
• Billy Hinchcliffe, Pilchers Mitre 10 Bowen
• Jessica March-Peach, Women’s Well Co
• Orry Ferguson, Airlie Beach Hotel
• Shontelle Betzel, Bowen Rail Company

Small Business Hero

Recognising sole traders and small businesses that make a big impact through ambition, innovation and resilience.

• Above and Below Gallery
• Airlie Health Hub
• Ambitious Cakes
• Ceremonies by Georgina
• Edge Dance Studio Whitsunday
• Mumabuba
• Oceanic Tales
• Option Insurance Brokers
• Party Cakes Whitsunday
• Principle Movements
• Queen of Clothing
• The Answer is Yes
• Tim Warren Auto Airconditioning & Electrical
• Yooribaya Cultural Experiences

Customer Service Champion

Celebrating businesses and individuals who consistently go above and beyond to create unforgettable customer experiences.

• Airlie Beach Executive Services
• Hogs Breath Cafe Airlie Beach
• Bowen Tourism and Business
• Katrina Williams, Garden Shack Whitsundays
• Magnums Accommodation Airlie Beach
• Mana Skin Body & Soul
• Mariah Dean, Frangipani Cleaning Services
• Peninsula Airlie Beach
• Tamarra Robson, Bowen Meals on Wheels
• Whitsunday Sailing Outrigger

Regional Game Changer

Recognising businesses that fuel economic growth, innovation and community prosperity across the region.

• Bowen Gumlu Growers Association
• Corrsafe Enterprises
• Shiift
• Tin Lid Enterprises
• Whitsunday Life Newspaper
• Whitsundays Property Buyers

Trailblazing Young Entrepreneur

Celebrating rising stars (under 25) who are redefining success in start-ups, leadership or industry innovation.

• Fayith Mitchell, Photography for You
• Mariah Dean, Frangipani Cleaning Services
• Sam Vanderpoel, Rolling with Netherpoel

Community Champion

Highlighting businesses making a real difference in the Whitsunday community through meaningful contributions and initiatives.

• Abbot Point Operations, Community Support Program
• Bowen Community Op Shop
• Bowen Meals on Wheels
• Bowen Old People's Home Society
• Bowen Tourism and Business
• Club Whitsunday
• Creative Connections Whitsunday
• Tassal
• Tin Lid Enterprises
• Whitsunday Housing Co Ltd

Eco Excellence

Showcasing businesses that are leading the way in sustainability, environmental responsibility and green innovation.

• Airlie Health Hub
• Bubble Soap Co
• Coral Sea Marina
• Pilchers Recycling
• Whitsunday Segway Tours
• Zero Waste Solutions

Business Legends of the Whitsundays: Hall of Fame

Celebrating businesses or individuals that have achieved long-term success and made an enduring impact.

• Abbot Point Operations
• Magnums Accommodation Airlie Beach
• Nathan Fleming, Airlie Beach Tourism and Ocean Rafting
• Tim Warren Auto Airconditioning & Electrical

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WHAT: Whitsunday Business Awards
WHERE: Proserpine Entertainment Centre
WHEN: Friday 21 November (5.30pm - 8.30pm)
Tickets: Available via Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry website

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Turquoise waters, teeming reefs, green landscapes, and the whitest of white beaches. The Whitsundays is a pretty special place. The region is not just a natural wonderland, home to 74 of the world’s most stunning islands. It’s a place for adventure, escape, indulgence, and where dreams become happy memories to share as stories for years to come.

As I move across the region, it’s never lost on me how blessed we are to live in such a beautiful and diverse part of the world. Tourism is a vital driver of the local economy, and nowhere is that more pronounced than in the Whitsundays.

Last Saturday night, the region’s tour companies, accommodation operators, restaurants, and tourism businesses were showcased at the Whitsunday Tourism Awards. Congratulations to all the winners. Your success is well deserved because the field of entrants was so strong. To those who may not have secured a victory, you should still be very proud. The sum of all your efforts makes for a local tourism industry with few rivals.

Around 900,000 people, both domestic and international visited the Whitsundays last year, spending over $1.6 billion. To put things in perspective, in 2019 that spend was just under $700 million. That’s more than double in five years. Add to that the fact that we had a couple of those years interrupted by COVID, and these are truly extraordinary figures. It’s the result of a lot of hard work by a lot of people, helping to position our region as a premier holiday destination. With so many amazing operators and industry groups, it’s not hard to see these figures continuing to rise.

The Whitsundays is a holiday mecca attracting visitors from all over the world. But it’s not just the international market that the region impresses. Airlie, Bowen, and surrounds are incredibly popular with Australians, too. Importantly, the industry is also well supported by locals. That’s right, locals choosing staycations and spending locally has a major impact on driving the industry to bigger and better things.

Many in the tourism industry faced difficult challenges during COVID, and with visitor numbers down over the course of a couple of years, it was locals who helped fill the void. With local support, most businesses and operators were able to battle through to be even stronger on the other side.

Every time you book a tour, stay on one of the islands, eat out, or even buy a coffee, you’re contributing to our local economy and tourism industry. I know how tough many are doing it right now with the cost of living and rising expenses. So, to everyone choosing to spend locally, thank you for continuing to support our businesses and operators. If you can’t afford to get away over Christmas, just remember there’s still plenty to enjoy right here at home. And don’t forget the region also has an array of great free activities, like going for a hike, cooling off at the lagoon, or throwing a line in.

Let’s keep showing the world what makes the Whitsundays not just a place to visit, but a place to remember.

Contributed with thanks to Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP

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Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP enjoying the sights of Airlie Beach while celebrating the success of the Whitsundays’ world-class tourism industry. Photo supplied

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As part of Sexual Violence Awareness Month this October, Whitsunday Counselling and Support will host its main community event, Reclaim the Night, at Coral Sea Marina Gardens. The evening will feature guest speakers including MP Amanda Camm and Officer in Charge Anthony Moynihan from Whitsunday Police, followed by a walk along the Airlie Beach Foreshore.

Attendees are encouraged to bring signs, or pick one up from the team on-site. Live music by Dylan Hammond, light nibbles, and networking opportunities will follow the walk.

“This is such an important issue in our community — one in four women experience some form of sexual violence in their lifetime,” said organiser Charlotte Jones.

This is the first event of its kind in Airlie, with hopes to make it an annual tradition.

WHAT: Reclaim the Night March
WHERE: Coral Sea Marina Gardens
WHEN: Saturday 25th October at 5.30pm

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Donzel began his Tec-NQ House journey in Semester 2, 2025, bringing fresh energy to the boarding community. As a year 10 student, preparing for year 11 in 2026, he already has his future mapped out: a career in the automotive industry.

“I chose Tec-NQ for the opportunities after school,” said Donzel.

“I heard about this school from family members,” he added.

It’s the strength of Tec-NQ’s vocational pathway options that attracted him, and he is keen to take every chance to learn. “So far, it’s been good,” he added with a smile.

Head of Boarding, Luke Papworth, says Donzel’s attitude is a great fit for Tec-NQ House. “When new students arrive with a clear goal, it sets them up to make the most of the opportunities here,” Luke said. “Donzel has come in focused on automotive, and we’re already seeing his commitment.”

Life outside of the classroom keeps Donzel busy. At home on Warraber Island in the Torres Strait, he spends spare time fishing with family and friends. In Townsville, he’s quick to make use of the boarding house facilities, enjoying games of pool and keeping up with basketball. A loyal Chicago Bulls supporter, his favourite number is 23, a tribute to Michael Jordan. On the rugby league field, he follows the Roosters.

For Luke, this balance of vocational focus, sport and recreation is exactly what Tec-NQ House was designed to provide. “Boarding gives young people independence with a safety net,” he explained. “We set expectations around learning, wellbeing and behaviour, and then we support them with structure and routine. That’s where they thrive.”

Tec-NQ House itself is a purpose-built boys-only residence located in Rosslea. Opened in 2022, it provides accommodation for up to forty senior school students from regional and remote Queensland, giving them access to Tec-NQ’s trade-focused senior school program.

The facility blends structure with comfort. Students have air-conditioned double-occupancy rooms, communal lounges with streaming services and computer access, and a secure outdoor recreation area with BBQ facilities and a basketball court. An on-site professional chef prepares nutritious meals every day, fuelling the boys for school, sport and work placements.

Transport is provided to the Tec-NQ Douglas co-educational campus, and staff also drive students to and from workplaces when required. This removes barriers and lets students focus on their learning, hobbies and friendships. After-hours, the boys enjoy organised sport, social activities and excursions, all designed to build a sense of community.

Luke says that for students like Donzel, these routines help them settle quickly. “First-year boarders do well when there is a clear rhythm to the week,” he said. “They learn to manage their time, connect with mates and build confidence. Those skills will serve them in school, in apprenticeships and in life.”

With his career pathway in mind, his hobbies from home, and a willingness to get involved in boarding life, Donzel is making a strong start. We look forward to seeing his journey continue into year 11 and 12.

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Strong Support for Visitor Services & RV Park Revival

Recently, the Proserpine Sub-Committee of the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce & Industry ran a Business Impact and Tourism Opportunities Survey to gather insight from local businesses on recent closures and how Proserpine can boost its visitor appeal.

The survey, completed by 20 businesses from diverse businesses and industry sectors – plus numerous comments on social media – revealed clear priorities and strong consensus among local operators.

Key Messages from Proserpine Businesses

   When the RV Park first opened in 2019, more than half of businesses noticed an immediate uplift, with some reporting up to a 10% increase in sales.
   68% of businesses reported a decline in customer traffic or sales after the RV Park closure in 2023, with 42% describing the drop as significant.
   85% strongly believe reinstating a free (or similar) RV Park in Proserpine would benefit both their business and the wider economy.
   70% say a centrally located Visitor Information Centre – ideally in the main street, or in or near an RV stop – would encourage more tourists to stop and explore Proserpine.

Travellers vs. Tourists: Why It Matters for Proserpine

While survey responses did not explicitly differentiate between travellers and tourists, the responses make clear that the closure of visitor services (the RV Park primarily) impacted travellers – particularly caravanners and grey nomads – rather than traditional tourists.

Unlike tourists, who are drawn to the Whitsundays for leisure and attractions such as the Reef, islands, or organised tours, travellers use Proserpine as a functional stopover point. They contribute not only to hospitality and retail, but also to a wide range of everyday services.

Respondents highlighted impacts across sectors not always associated with tourism, including automotive repairs, veterinary clinics, healthcare providers, and general retail.

Businesses stressed that these visitors created broad-based economic value. One respondent noted:

“We’ve noticed fewer caravanners stopping to restock supplies since the RV Park closed.”

Another added: “There was a huge drop in foot traffic… it was like the life was sucked out of the town.”

This feedback shows that travellers generate spending patterns extending well beyond the traditional visitor economy. By losing an RV Park, Proserpine has lost a key mechanism that encouraged these stopovers – reducing both main street vibrancy and customer flow across service industries.

What Businesses Want to See

Based on the survey results, the Whitsundays Chamber calls for:

   Reinstating a free or low-cost RV stopover facility to support travellers, not just tourists.
   Establishing a main-street Visitor Information Centre – or distributed information outlets in current Proserpine businesses – to improve visitor services and provide orientation.
   Upgrading basic visitor amenities – more toilets, showers, shade, and accessible parking are needed.
   Building on Proserpine events and experiences, including heritage storytelling, guided town walks, and using major events to activate the town.

Conclusion & Next Steps

The survey results clearly show that Proserpine businesses see traveller-friendly infrastructure and a central Visitor Information Centre as vital to attracting stopovers, increasing visitor spend, and strengthening the local economy. There is also strong appetite to collaborate on initiatives that celebrate heritage and activate the town through events and experiences.

The Whitsundays Chamber will now:

   Engage with Whitsunday Regional Council to present the survey results and advocate for reinstating traveller-friendly facilities, including an RV Park and Visitor Information.
   Explore opportunities and partnerships to fund a Whitsundays Chamber-led Historical Town Trail initiative that integrates business, industry, and arts and culture precincts.
   Launch a Whitsundays Chamber-led Business Activation Strategy to align Proserpine with regional tourism priorities and major events, and elevate appeal through improved retail standards, coordinated marketing, and precinct revitalisation initiatives.

Full Data & Report now available

The full Business Impact & Tourism Opportunities Report is available from the Whitsundays Chamber website with aggregated data, question-by-question breakdowns, and direct business feedback.

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Honouring Gene Wilson And His Lasting Legacy

As Mayor of the Whitsundays, one of the greatest privileges of this role is to recognise those who have left an enduring mark on our community. This week I want to reflect on the life and legacy of the man who created Mullers Lagoon, Gene Wilson, who passed away recently at the age of 98.

Gene and his wife Sylvia, along with their children Jeannie, Charles and Gwen, arrived in Bowen from Lutz, Florida, in 1961. Like many who choose to call the Whitsundays home, Gene brought with him not only a love for this place but also a vision for what it could become. He looked at what many saw as a swamp and instead saw the opportunity to create something beautiful and lasting for the community.

In the late 1960s, Gene began the enormous task of transforming flood-prone land into what we now know as Mullers Lagoon. Using a homemade dredge, a front-end loader, trucks, scoops, and plenty of hard work, he moved countless cubic metres of mud and silt.

It was a labour of determination, resourcefulness, and sheer belief in a better future. By the early 1980s, his vision had come to life in a picturesque lake and surrounding parkland that has since become one of Bowen’s most loved community spaces.

In the mid-1980s, Gene and Sylvia made another remarkable gesture. They sold the lake and much of the surrounding land to Council on very favourable terms so that it could be preserved as parkland for the people of Bowen.

Their decision was not about profit but about community. It was about ensuring that future generations would have a place to gather, to relax and to enjoy the natural beauty of our region.

Council is now finalising details to name a new walking track at Mullers Lagoon in Gene’s honour. This is a fitting tribute to a man who dedicated so much of his life to turning a vision into reality for the benefit of others. His legacy will continue to be enjoyed by families, visitors and the people of Bowen for generations to come.

Gene Wilson’s story is a reminder that lasting legacies are built through passion, perseverance, and a commitment to community. On behalf of Council, I extend heartfelt condolences to the Wilson family and gratitude for the extraordinary gift Gene has left to Bowen.

His work has created a place that embodies the spirit of our region and will continue to enrich lives well into the future.

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Whitsunday Regional Council is launching a collaborative Erosion and Sediment Control Inspection Program this wet season (November – April 2025) to help protect our waterways, seagrasses and reef environments.

Sites with good erosion and sediment controls not only safeguard marine ecosystems but also prevent soil and gravel from clogging stormwater drains, which in turn reduces local flooding and keeps our roads safer.

Find out more about best practice erosion and sediment controls by visiting the Coastal Management and Waterways section of Council’s website.

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Made a mistake? We’re not here to judge. (That’s the magistrate’s job.)

Traffic offences. Minor criminal charges. Everyone deserves a fair go and the right advice.

At Whitsunday Law, we help you understand your options, prepare for court, and avoid making things worse. We’ll give you clear, honest advice and represent you if you need us in court. No scare tactics, no judgement, just practical support.

Because one bad day shouldn’t define your future.

Whitsunday Law – Real help, when it really matters.

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Accountancy Plus

Annual financial reports were introduced by QBCC to check the financial strength of contractor-grade licensees in Queensland.

Our highly skilled team at APW can assist you with your annual reporting & calculating the financial health ratios as per QBCC standards.

Important Dates:
28 October: September 2025 quarter employee super is due

31 October: Tax Returns (not lodged through a tax agent) are due for lodgement

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Are you planning on retiring in the next couple of years?  If so, you should consider some pre-retirement planning right now.

There are several things to consider.  How much income do you want to have for the active, less active and sedentary phases of your retirement to do everything you want to do?  Do you have enough in the pot to fund this desired retirement income?  Will you get Age Pension support at any point?  Do you have to shuffle money around between outside and inside super or between husband and wife?  What if the share market and property prices crash?  One of the biggest things to learn more about is how to protect yourself against the inevitable market crashes.  Based on history they will happen twice in a 20-year retirement, and that is the focus of this article.

Currently you’re a worker who is building their super and wealth and investing through contributions, so you are a regular BUYER of investments.  When you retire and start drawing down on your super and investments to provide a passive income, you swap, and become a regular SELLER of investments to fund those monthly super pension payments.  This is a complete 180 degree about face, and it has some ramifications that you should start planning for now.

If you think back to the big investment crashes in the last 20 years, we had the Covid crash in 2020 where all markets fell 30% and took 12 months to recover, the Global Financial Crisis in 2007 where all markets fell 50% and took 5 years to recover and the tech wreck in 2000 where overseas markets fell 50% and took 6 years to recover.  The key is that in all those crashes when the good quality, blue chip investments underlying your super fell in value, you were buying them, as your employer and maybe you made your regular super contributions.  As an example, in the GFC, Commonwealth Bank shares fell from $60 per share in 2007 back to $24 per share in 2009.  Luckily you bought some with your regular contributions as they’re now around $100 per share and you’ve also earned good dividends every year.  Different story if you had been forced to sell some at the wrong time because you were retired and had to provide cash within your super pension to draw down a regular monthly payment to live.

There are strategies to protect against having to sell undervalued assets to fund pension payments in retirement.  At Eclipse, we’ve been in this game for over 30 years and have been using our ‘Bucket Strategy’ to protect our retired clients through all these crashes.

The biggest take away from this article is if you are looking to retire in the next few years, you should pre-plan for it now.  The world is a very uncertain place right now with wars, trade wars, geopolitical tensions and the AI bubble, and you don’t want a market crash to happen just before your retirement if you’re unprepared.  Many people couldn’t retire in 2007/8/9 in their 60’s and retired in 2012/13/14 in their 70’s because they hadn’t come in for pre-retirement planning and got caught by the 2007 GFC.  Don’t miss 5 years of the best, active years of your retirement, plan and protect yourself now.

For a free consultation with local people who understand the complexities of these or any other financial matter, contact Eclipse Financial Services at Cannonvale on 49467359 today or visit www.eclipsefp.com.au Book in for our free Pre-Retirement Planning seminar in August.

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In every workplace, people (especially introverts) obsess over the right words—what to write in an email, how to have impact in a meeting, how to sound like I have the answers. But here’s the truth: what really sets you apart it’s not what you say, it’s how you say it. Non-verbal communication  — your body language, tone, and energy—is the game-changer.

Around 80% of communication is non-verbal. So before you’ve even opened your mouth, people are reading you. They’ve already decided if you’re trustworthy and worth listening to. We can have the same skills and experience, but the person who is aware of their non-verbal cues and communicates with genuine warmth will instantly stand out.

Non-verbal communication is awesome because it’s universal. A smile signals openness, crossing your arms can shut a conversation down before it even begins. People might forget your words, but they’ll never forget how you made them feel. And that feeling? That’s what builds trust, influence, rapport, and connection.

Being able to read non-verbal cues is just as powerful. When you notice someone’s body language change, you can adapt in real time. You can slow down, clarify, or reframe. That awareness makes you more in tune with the people around you. It’s like having a secret superpower in meetings, interviews, and team conversations. Even online, non-verbal communication speaks louder than ever. On video calls, eye contact, posture, and gestures all tell people whether you’re switched on or zoning out. Your lighting, your background, even how you sit—these things send messages before your words do.

Here’s the best part: this skill can be learned. Start by watching yourself. Notice your expressions, your tone, the space you take up. Then match your non-verbal signals to the message you actually want to send.

When your words and presence align, people don’t just hear you—they feel you. That’s when real impact begins. In a noisy workplace full of talkers, the person who masters non-verbal communication doesn’t need to shout to be heard. They simply stand out. Register for Building Emotional Intelligence Essentials now https://shiift.com.au/programs-workshops/

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The 2025 Whitsundays Job Fair has been hailed a success, bringing together local employers, job seekers, and service providers to strengthen connections across the region’s workforce.

Held at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on Tuesday 21 October, the event attracted more than 80 job seekers including school students, mid-career professionals, those returning to the workforce, and mature-aged candidates – many arriving prepared with résumés in hand. Several participants secured job interviews as early as the following day.

More than 25 businesses and service providers were represented, with additional businesses listing current vacancies and career opportunities on the Fair’s job board. Participating employers spanned the region’s key industries, including tourism, hospitality, agriculture, resources, education, health, and community services.

The Job Fair provided valuable opportunities for employers and service providers to connect with potential candidates, conduct informal interviews, and discuss local employment pathways.

It also served as an important platform for business-to-business networking, with discussions centring on key regional workforce themes. Among the hot topics discussed were:

   Strengthening local pathways: The need to build a stronger pipeline between schools, training providers, and local industry to ensure school leavers are aware of regional career options and encouraged to build their futures in the Whitsundays.

   Workforce accommodation: Continued demand for suitable housing and support services, particularly for seasonal workers and employees relocating to the region. Collaboration was identified as key to addressing these challenges and sustaining long-term workforce growth.

   Return-to-work and older workers: Many businesses recognised the value of experience, flexibility, and re-skilling opportunities to retain and diversify talent within the local workforce.

   Volunteerism as a pathway: Highlighted as a valuable entry point for individuals seeking to build skills, confidence, and community engagement.

   The rise of AI and digital transformation: Conversations explored how artificial intelligence and digital technologies are reshaping job design, productivity, and skill requirements. Employers agreed that continuous learning and digital readiness are vital to future regional prosperity.

Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s President Allan Milostic said “When we employ locals, we’re not just filling a role we’re investing in the capability and stability of our community.”

The Whitsundays Job Fair once again demonstrated the power of local collaboration in supporting workforce development, connecting people with opportunities, and strengthening the region’s economy and community resilience.

The Job Fair was hosted by the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Placements, and Workforce Australia Local Jobs with thanks to the Whitsunday Regional Council and Proserpine Entertainment Centre, and media partners Mackay and Whitsunday Life and StarFM.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce & Industry

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To honour Queensland Mental Health Week Bowen State High School's student support service team and students ran activities including a Mindfulness Market.

The Mindfulness Market held last Wednesday, was supported by local community agencies. Students took part in a variety of activities, including creating affirmation rocks, and enjoyed lively performances by both staff and students. The hospitality department also delighted everyone with chocolate mud cake and a range of sweet treats.

Bowen State High School Principal Rob Harris said that the Market was amazing and feedback was positive.

"We had a number of external support agencies attend as well including Girudala Health Team, Headspace Whitsunday, Whitsunday Suicide Prevent Network, Whitsunday Counselling and Support, Selectability and MADEC," he added.

"Our student services team did an amazing job to create an inclusion market for all student to connect with each other and staff. The information and activities provided an opportunity for students to engage in conversations about their mental health and wellbeing.

"Thank you to NQBP for providing a grant to support our mindfulness market. Well done to everyone who got involved in the activities."

On Friday last week, Bibigoo Yumba was buzzing with activity as students made their own anti-stress balls using rice and balloons.

The mental health socks were a huge hit, and Principal Rob Harris said they will continue to sell them to students and staff throughout the term.

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As we approach the end of October, it’s hard to believe how much has happened this year at the Bowen Community Centre. We have seen some of our families reach out about our Adopt a Family program, but unfortunately, we’ve received fewer donations this year than in previous years. To help boost our efforts, we’ve organised a community raffle with fantastic prizes! The first prize is valued at over $500, and at just $1.00 per ticket, it’s a bargain worth taking!

To recap on our Adopt a Family enterprise, if you would like to contribute, please consider dropping off a voucher. We collaborate with local services in Bowen who work with families in need. Last year, we helped over 50 people enjoy a wonderful Christmas, and with your support, we hope to do even more this year.

The Bowen Community Centre have recently moved back into the permanent office after six weeks in temporary accommodations. I want to extend my sincere gratitude to our homeless community members for their incredible patience during this transition. I truly apologise for any inconvenience we may have caused.

We often take basic amenities like hot showers for granted, and the lack of laundry and shower facilities has been particularly challenging for our rough sleepers. Our homeless individuals are some of the kindest people I have the privilege to work with, and it pains us to disrupt their access to essential services.

Thank you, Bowen community, for your continued support and understanding as we work to serve you better. Together, we can make a difference!

Contributed with thanks to Bowen Community Centre Executive Officer Stephanie Cora

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