Iconic Whitsunday Adventures offer a boutique collection of small group tours that certainly made waves at this years’ tourism awards scooping up gold in the Best Tour and Transport Operator category.

For the past 16 years, Nicole and Jeremy Graham have been gradually carving out a niche in the local market and, by bringing their four unique tours together under one umbrella, the couple have consolidated their offering.

Iconic Whitsunday Adventures incorporates four classic tours that provide a full range of experiences to discerning holiday makers.

Lady Enid is the only adults-only classic-yacht full-day sailing adventure in the Whitsundays, while new addition Viper is the only vessel that can take passengers to Whitehaven Beach and the outer reef all in one day.

Sundowner is the relaxed sunset cruise that is a crowd favourite, fun and social, perfect for a party or celebration.

Last but not least, the Coastal Explorer Bus, visits four amazing locations from Cedar Creek falls to Cape Gloucester resort, a wonderful way to share another on-land aspect of the Whitsundays.

This is the first time Iconic Whitsunday Adventures has entered the awards, with the launch of the new business name an impetus to write a submission for the first time in 16 years.

“We have been around for a long time with our products, but we have only this year launched our overarching brand Iconic Whitsunday Adventures, so we thought it was perfect timing,” said Nicole.

“It was an absolute honour to win gold for best tour and transport operator, full gratitude to our team who look after all our guests each and every day to ensure they have the best experience possible.  

“We are a small but mighty team!”

Nicole credits her team with being at the heart of the product, constantly reinforcing the company values and representing the business to thousands of tourists each year.

“Our team are passionate, fun, hardworking and genuinely care about us as a business which we are forever grateful,” she explained.

Shooting for the stars again next year, Nicole and Jeremy say they are looking forward to working on their business throughout the year and putting together another award-winning submission.

They are certainly the business to watch at next years’ awards.

Left to right: Jeremy Graham, Christina Unterwurzacher, Nicole Graham, Deena Hansen, Robbie Giles and Robert Kellett. Photo credit: R Jean Photography

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The SeaLink Whitsundays team has come home with another award under their belt, taking out bronze for Tour and Transport Operators.

Established just two years ago this smooth and successful local operator has kicked many goals since its inception in 2021, and this latest award cements its place among the other big operators in the area.

SeaLink Whitsundays has been connecting the Islands and also taking tourists to some of the best spots with their comfortable, air-conditioned catamaran proving popular with visitors to the region.

Travelling in luxury and ensuring that each and every guest has an unforgettable time experiencing the greater Whitsunday region, SeaLink prides itself of exceptional customer service.

As part of the Kelsian group of companies, SeaLink Whitsundays operates within the SeaLink Marine and Tourism division.

“We offer a direct full day tour via the iconic Whitsunday Islands and include stops at Hill Inlet and of course Whitehaven Beach,” explained Sealink Whitsundays General Manager, Rob Mitchell.

“Our point of difference includes an air-conditioned spacious multi-level vessel with a 360-degree viewing deck, capped numbers for guest comfort, gourmet food offerings and fully licenced bar.

“We also offer complimentary bus transfers, year round, except Christmas Day, and have received 100 per cent 5-star reviews.”

From the submission process, Rob believes that SeaLink achieved bronze due to their progressive innovation and consistent improvements.

“Our unique points of difference are our efforts to innovate and improve, and our impressive high score with ReviewPro,” Rob said.

Winning the bronze award was “very exciting” for the SeaLink team.

“While we were hoping for gold, we are still very pleased with the bronze award as we are still a very young product, and this was our first time entering the Awards.

“Congratulations to all award recipients on the night, we look forward to a continued long-term presence in the Whitsundays. See you all next year!” Rob said.

Rob also thanked the wider SeaLink Whitsunday team.

“It is a collective effort led by myself, as General Manager, and our Manager of Operations Gary Kilby – but none of it could be achieved without the remarkable team in the Whitsundays,” he explained.

“From the dedicated Captains and Crew, Sales and Reservations personnel, to our invaluable support staff in Gladstone, each of them has played an integral role in contributing to the success and distinction of this tour, transforming it into a truly premier product.”

Looking to the next year, Sealink Whitsundays is ready to take on the 2024 Tourism Awards and accomplish a better result, while consistently improving their current product and offerings, and making the region bigger and better for visitors.

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The SeaLink Whitsundays team celebrating at the Whitsunday Tourism Awards on Friday night. Photo supplied

SeaLink Whitsundays offer full day tours to Hill Inlet and Whitehaven Beach. Photos supplied

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Renowned for providing unique and incredible experiences to over 800,000 guests this year alone, it is no wonder that Cruise Whitsundays’ truly memorable accommodation offerings rose to the top at this years’ Whitsunday Tourism Awards.

Representatives from the company celebrated with gusto as they were awarded a gold gong in the Unique Accommodation Category, an achievement that cemented a year of hard work and dedication by every member of the team.

“Our team was very excited and grateful,” said Cruise Whitsundays’ Sales and Marketing Manager Renee Branton-Brown.

“This year’s win was very emotional, and a lot of heart and soul went into the writing of the submission.  

“We believe that Reefstays are Australia’s most unique accommodation, and this win echoes that sentiment.”

This is not the first year Cruise Whitsundays have brought home awards, in fact they have previously shone at state and national awards as well.

Most recently, they were awarded Gold for Reefstays in the Unique Accommodation category and took home Gold for Major Tourist Attraction for Reefworld in 2022.

“Our Reefstay experiences are unlike any other offering in Australia,” said Renee.

“It literally immerses you into the heart of the Great Barrier Reef.”

Reefsleep offers guests the opportunity to stay in luxury glamping style accommodation on the deck of the Reefworld pontoon located 39 nautical miles out to sea.

Guests can also book an exclusive Reefsuite and stay in Australia’s premium underwater hotel, waking up to a colourful wonderland of coral reef, visible through the floor to ceiling viewing window in the bedroom.

In 2024, Cruise Whitsundays will be celebrating an impressive 20 years of operation and its overall fleet consists of 27 commercial vessels.

There are 11 vessels operating between five departure points, offering 14 different day tours with customisable options and the two bucket-list overnight experiences throughout the Whitsundays.

Cruise Whitsundays also services over 160,000 cruise ship passengers per year.

At the heart of every successful business, however, is the incredible staff that deliver the exceptional products.

“The entire Cruise Whitsundays team deserves our sincere thanks for this award!” said Renee.

“This includes our operations team and crew, who operate an amazing product and work tirelessly to deliver an exceptional guest experience; our sales and marketing team, who ensure the world knows about our not-to-be-missed offerings and wrote this year's submission; and our leadership team and Journey Beyond, for giving us the tools required to offer such unique products.

“A win for Cruise Whitsundays is a win for the Whitsundays region, and we celebrate with all the other tourism operators who won awards. We are lucky to call the Whitsundays home, and together, our industry works tirelessly to showcase the wonders of the Whitsundays to the world.”

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The team from Cruise Whitsundays celebrating their win on Friday night: Photo credit: R Jean Photography

Reefstays offer incredible accommodation options 39 nautical miles out to sea. Photos supplied

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Almost 40 dedicated Ocean Rafting team members attended the glittering Hollywood themed Whitsunday Tourism Awards ceremony on Friday night and their jubilance at the announcement of each gold award brought big grins to every face as they celebrated amongst their peers.

Taking home gold in the ‘Major Tour & Transport’ and ‘Adventure Tourism’ categories, Ocean Rafting was also acknowledged as the Whitsundays’ favourite tourism experience in the consumer-voted ‘People’s Choice Award Experience’ at the gala industry awards.

James Unsworth, Ocean Rafting’s Environmental Manager, Senior Skipper, and Master Reef Guide, was also acknowledged for his extensive contribution to the industry in the areas of marine conservation and protection, winning the esteemed Young Achiever Award.

For the past 26 years, this family-owned business has been delivering exceptional tours to countless visitors who each return home with incredible stories to tell about the Whitsundays.

Owned by long-time locals, Peter and Jan Claxton, Ocean Rafting has six family owners/members spread out over three generations actively working in the business.

Operations Manager and son, Kerr Claxton, attended the awards and said he was thrilled to celebrate with the rest of the team.

“Our passion and excitement for the work we do is always reflected in our team,” he said.

“They do the most fabulous job day in and out, but they also work hard to ensure our guests return home with the most unforgettable memories of their Whitsunday holiday, while also protecting this beautiful environment in which we work and play.

“We are incredibly proud of our team’s ongoing passion, dedication, and commitment to sharing the wonders of the Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef Park.

“With the Whitsundays leading the way as one of Queensland’s most desirable destinations, particularly over the past few years, it is nice to receive this recognition in a post COVID-era where we feel we can continue to align our operations with growth and development to cater to visitors from the world over.”

Ocean Rafting’s fleet of eight semi-rigid inflatable vessels allow guests to experience their signature adrenalin-fuelled ride amongst the beauty of the Whitsundays, while a maximum of 32 passengers allows for a personalised tour with the pleasure of a small group.

“On behalf of the Ocean Rafting family, we would like to thank our loyal agents, our First Nation peoples who allow us to share their Land and Sea Country, our fellow tourism industry partners and operators, and without doubt, our guests, who allow us to continue to do what we love most,” said owner Jan Claxton.

“Receiving the Major Tour and Transport Award and the Adventure Tourism Award are true reflections of our products, which offer the adventure of a lifetime around the beautiful Whitsunday Islands, surfing the waves and feeling the rush on the boats we have designed especially for this purpose, then up to the sky with our scenic flights and Fly Raft package, which is an iconic triple-whammy providing the ultimate Whitsunday experience in just one day.

“The People’s Choice Award was won based on voting from our guests and industry colleagues and the recognition is a testament to our team and our product, so we couldn’t be any prouder,” said Jan.

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The Ocean Rafting team collecting their awards on Friday night. L-R - Nathan Fleming, Kerr Claxton and Jacki Dearson. Photo credit: R Jean Photography

James Unsworth, Ocean Rafting’s Environmental Manager, Senior Skipper, and Master Reef Guide was awarded Young Achiever of the Year. Photo credit: R Jean Photography

Ocean Rafting is a unique experience with adventure at its heart. Photo supplied

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Taking out top spot for 4 to 4.5 Star Deluxe Accommodation at the 2023 Tourism Awards was the elegant and sleek Mirage Whitsunday.

Recognisable in the region as one of the most luxurious up-market accommodations, this accolade joins the trophy cabinet of consistent annual wins for Mirage Whitsundays.

“It’s a spectacular feeling, to come away from the night with this win,” explained General Manager of Mirage Whitsundays, Michael Quigley.

In fact, this is the sixth year in a row that Mirage Whitsundays has taken the top spot in this category.

“And before that, in 2018, Mirage was inducted into the Hall of Fame, as we had won Gold for 4 to 4.5 Star Deluxe Accommodation for consecutive years,” Michael said.

“But our win is a massive team effort, particularly from our housekeeping team. We have an entire team of about 40, and most of them are housekeepers.

“Our housekeepers ensure the best first impression to our guests, for when they check into a room, and their work is invaluable and impeccable.”

Within their submission for the category, Michael explained that almost every aspect of the hotel was drawn into the awards.

“We covered a little bit of everything. We covered everything from sentiment to accessibility claims to improvements, and absolutely everything in between.”

Coming away with this award puts Mirage Whitsundays into the annual Queensland Tourism Awards, where Michael and his team are excited to see how their accommodation ranks.

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Michael Quigley (GM), Jasmine Sayers (Housekeeping Manager), Rachel Jepsen (Housekeeping Supervisor), Ruby Boyd (Housekeeping Team Leader, Brian Russell (Grounds and Maintenance Attendant). Photo credit: R Jean Photography

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In another massive night for local small business, Scamper, Whitsunday Island Camping Connections proved nature and adventure are the back bone to success, taking away two awards and a finalist position.

Sarah Vickery, Manager of Scamper Island Camping and Whitsunday Water Bikes shared her excitement for the team achieving the award placements.

“We were so amazed to even get mentioned, let alone win awards. Our team is only small as we are a family owned and operated business, but all three of our staff were so thrilled to have won, and it has pushed us to want to do more.”

Coming home with a silver award in Ecotourism and a bronze in Adventure Tourism, Scamper have been recognised for their progressive conservationism of the Great Barrier Reef and regions.

“Our business is different to the operators in the area, which we love,” explained Sarah.

“We have focused on nature-based tourism, but for people to explore at their own pace and really getting to see the natural side of the islands.

“With our camping transfers, people get to spend time at the iconic Whitehaven Beach, without all the tourists, they get to explore bushwalking trails to breathtaking lookouts, where most tours don’t go, and snorkel all day long if they want to,” Sarah explained.

The team also were named finalist in the category Tour and Transport Operator.

“When we are given a location like this, it’s easy to be a tourism destination,” Sarah said.

“A massive congratulations to all the other winners, the effort you put in is surely recognised and we are so proud to work alongside you all in making this the best destination, the beautiful Whitsundays.”

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The Scamper team on awards night. Photo credit: R Jean Photography

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The 82-strong team at BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort are celebrating this week following their incredible achievements at the Whitsunday Tourism Awards where they scooped up three top gongs across three highly acclaimed categories.

Cementing its 30th year in business with another impressive round of accolades, this iconic Whitsunday resort won gold in the ‘Caravan and Holiday Parks’ and ‘Accessible Tourism’ categories, while also scooping the consumer-voted ‘People’s Choice Award for Accommodation’ at the gala industry awards.

This is not the first time this family-owned business has brought home awards, in fact, for many years the McKinnon family have achieved top gongs, most notably their gold wins at the Australian, Queensland, and Whitsunday Tourism Awards in 2022.

Resort CEO Phil Casey, who attended the 2023 Whitsunday Tourism Awards with some of the resort’s team, accepted the three gongs on behalf of the McKinnon family and staff.

“We are incredibly proud to have won these three awards, each on their own merit,” he said.

“It truly is a reflection of the hard work, passion and dedication of our team, who all work together to make the magic happen.

“From exceptional customer service, quality accommodation and facilities, through to our ongoing development and accessible facilities, we offer a true Australian family holiday for everyone.

“As a team, we have to say thank you to the Whitsunday tourism industry and the entire community for supporting us over the years, and most importantly, our guests, many who continue to choose our resort as their holiday destination of choice time and again.”

“We also extend our congratulations to all the other entrants, finalists, and winners. The Whitsunday region should be so proud of the many offerings we have available, in one of the most naturally beautiful environments in the world.

“To our industry partners, and particularly Tourism Whitsundays, we truly appreciate everyone’s hard work in promoting and celebrating this wonderful destination.”

With innovation and continual advancement at the forefront of the business for BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort, it is no wonder they continue to kick goals this year.

Seven new cabins have been added to the inventory and the construction of its 71-bed “Bunk House” quality dormitory accommodation, enhances its offering to the Edutoursim and groups market, in particular school groups.

Additionally, with this year being the Year of Accessible Tourism in Queensland, BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort has also had a strong focus on improving its accessible needs, including new developments for the vision impaired and those with mobility issues, while also complementing its well-utilised Sensory Room, which caters for children on the autism spectrum and their families by offering a special holiday retreat.

The resort has become synonymous with offering the very best Australian holiday experience. Loved by return guests for their consistently friendly service, concerted customer focus and commitment to continual improvement and innovation, the resort is the first choice for a Queensland holiday.

With its 10 hectares of beautifully landscaped tropical gardens, over 15 onsite activities including a big, huge, mega waterslide park, lagoon style pool, mini golf, outdoor cinema, and Kid’s Club, it is easy to see how this award-winning destination truly shines both locally and nationally.

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Tiffany Brett, Adam Buttel, Sandy Halstead, Phil Casey, Storm Tebbutt, Zoe Wallen, Rory Saint and Jess Fairhall. Photo credit: R Jean Photography

A mega waterslide park is the central attraction for families from across the country. Photos supplied

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Adding to their awards cabinet once again this year, the team at Accom Whitsundays are thrilled to take home Silver in the Self-Contained Accommodation category at the Whitsunday Tourism Awards.

This is the third year they have achieved an award in this category, receiving the silver award in 2019, a bronze last year and stepping it back up to a silver award again this year.

“It was such a great moment for the team!” said Annette Neil, CEO of Accom Whitsundays.

“It is a nice feeling when all the hard work we have put in over the last year pays off.”

A holiday accommodation provider that specialises in offering clients the full service, from management to booking and housekeeping, Accom Whitsundays are the go-to for vacation homes here in the Whitsundays.

Their professionalism and high-quality service has garnered them with a reputation for smooth and efficient dealings with both guests and investors.

“We are unique in that we offer a complete management service, not just a booking agent,” said Annette.

“We also now have a housekeeping team, and we have an internal quality controller.”

Providing peace of mind for holiday homeowners, Accom Whitsundays ensures that each customer’s investment not only generates a solid and steady income but is also safely looked after as if it were their own.

When asked what qualities they believe Tourism Award judges looked for in their submission, Annette said that they had been driving forwards in marketing.

“Throughout the year we have been constantly implementing new marketing strategies,” she explained.

“And now it has resulted in financial and portfolio growth, and customer satisfaction which is evidenced through our countless positive google reviews.

“I am very proud of all the staff and the wonderful team.”

Accom Whitsundays is part of the broader PRD Whitsunday network and the standards of service, quality delivery and management are aligned across both successful local businesses.

“We are a small team, and everyone in the team has contributed to the success,” said Annette.

“Using each other’s strengths to maximise our potential.

“What is unique is that people outside our team, in PRD Whitsundays, can step in when needed, so we always have someone that has our back.”

Always looking ahead to more success, the team at Accom Whitsundays are excited to enter the awards next year, aiming to bring back the top gong in 2024.

“It would be incredible to bring home gold next year, and we are definitely always aiming for that!” said Annette.

“We are, however, extremely proud to win silver and would like to thank all our industry peers, congratulate the other winners and celebrate our broader tourism industry.”

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Priding itself on delivering high quality health food to the Whitsundays, Airlie Health Hub has been recognised for its exceptional sustainable practices, leading the way as Most Outstanding Whitsundays Retailer at the Whitsunday Business Awards.

Held in conjunction with the Whitsunday Tourism Awards, the Whitsunday Business Awards celebrates local businesses and spotlights high achievers.

Owners of Airlie Health Hub, Hayley and Paul Moran said they were over the moon to be acknowledged amongst their peers as one of the industry leaders.

“We were absolutely speechless!” said Hayley.

“Unfortunately, we were unable to attend the awards and were eagerly watching the results through the Tourism Whitsundays Facebook page.

“I can’t begin to explain the excitement that came when we saw our name come up and messages started to come through from friends and industry partners that were at the awards.”

Airlie Health Hub have been operating for 19 months and during that time they have completely revolutionised the local health food retail offering.

“We specialise in Organic and Local health foods, from bulk foods to produce straight from our local farms,” explained Hayley.

“Being a bulk food store, our foods are package free meaning you can get as little or as much as you like.”

Specialising in all things health, the store offers a range of products, from organic food to products for the skin or household cleaning, everything is free from harmful chemicals.

“We stock a large arrangement of organic food, health supplements and eco essentials to help you live a more sustainable life,” said Hayley.

“We live and breathe what our store stands for and I think that helps because the passion comes naturally.”

Every element of the service is designed with sustainability in mind, from the way food items are unpacked to sourcing local products where possible, Airlie Health Hub is dedicated to supporting organic practises which help to rejuvenate the land and benefit soil health.

Every time you purchase a natural or organic item from Health Hub you will also be helping the environment by using a recycled jar or bottle with which to transport your produce home.

Wicker shopping baskets are available to borrow in-store and they supply a collection of donated jars and bottles that can be used to store your purchased goodies.

With over 300 products in stock, you can choose from pantry staple items, dried fruits, nuts, pulses, superfoods, spices, flours, rice pastas and dairy products.

They also stock locally baked artisan sourdough bread, fresh eggs direct from local farms, a range of other pantry items and completely natural cleaning products.

Airlie Health Hub can also help you live a preservative free life by replacing your favourite family food items with equally delicious alternatives.

From peanut butter to confectionary and cereals, they offer organic goodness with taste satisfaction every time.

If you are looking to live a more sustainable lifestyle, you can trust that Airlie Health Hub will offer you the quality products and standard of service aligned with its new mantle, Most Outstanding Whitsundays Retailer of the Year.

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Hayley and Paul Moran celebrated their first year in business this January. Photo: Norina Jane

High quality organic health foods delivered in a sustainable setting at Airlie Health Hub. Photos supplied

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Quintessential Bowen business, Bowen Fisherman’s Seafood and Bird’s Fish Bar has taken out the coveted Bowen Business of the Year award.

Owner and operator Chloe Bauer was overwhelmed with the award win, especially given this was the first year they had participated.

“This was our first year we entered the awards, and we are ecstatic!” she said.

“And extremely grateful.”

Unsure about what particular aspect of their submission secured the win, Chloe is excited to accept the accolades with open arms.

Steeped in Bowen town history, Bowen Fisherman’s Seafood was established in 1982, and has continued to be family owned and operated.

Undergoing major renovations in 2013, the business expanded, with Bird’s Fish Bar being welcomed into the mix.

“This third generation run business has a deep passion for Bowen, promoting our beautiful area and the seafood industry,” said Chloe.

“Offering a unique dining experience of ‘boat to plate’ that you can’t find anywhere else in the region has been a huge contribution to Bowen Tourism.”

“We pride ourselves on using local produce and supporting small businesses. We are fortunate enough to have direct access to some of the best seafood in the world and have been a strong advocate for the fishing industry. We’re always looking at giving back to the community and are heavily involved with local sporting clubs, community events and supporting local fundraisers.”  

Chloe also wishes to thank the team that guaranteed their win.

“We are incredibly grateful for every single person in our team. We have a passionate and diverse team who I’m incredibly proud of and I genuinely enjoy working alongside.”

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Owner and operator of Bowen Fisherman’s Seafood and Bird’s Fish Bar, Chloe Bauer, with the award for Bowen Business of the Year. Photo credit: R Jean Photography

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Synonymous with quaint and comfortable perfection, Magnums Accommodation Airlie Beach took out three massive awards at the 2023 Whitsunday Tourism Awards, last Friday night.

Committed to providing a budget traveller with a special experience, Magnums Accommodation Airlie Beach, has become a calling card to all travellers and locals alike.

“Magnums is Airlie Beach’s original accommodation provider,” explained Magnums Accommodation Executive Chairperson, Elizabeth Hackett.

“Magnums Accommodation has been owned and operated by a group of truly committed and experienced tourism advocates. We place great importance on customer service and leaving a legacy for future generations. We are strongly committed to our environment and our community.”

With an extensive history in Airlie Beach, it is no wonder that Magnums came home with three massive awards last weekend.

Coming out top for the Whitsunday Business Awards, Magnums is officially the 2023 Whitsunday Business of the Year as well as Most Outstanding Whitsunday Booking Service.

The high-quality accommodation provider also received a gold gong at the Tourism Awards, having been crowned gold winner in 3 to 3.5 Star Accommodation category.

“The team have worked so hard post-COVID to reinvent ourselves and to be recognised as benchmark operators amongst so many other industry ambassadors. It was just so rewarding!” said Elizabeth.

“Life is a journey, it is our responsibility to ensure that this journey is improved for all who work and visit us at Magnums Airlie Beach”.

“At Magnums, we understand that we can do the best job in the world but without a strong RTO, a committed CEO and Board and a local Council who understands the importance of tourism, we would simply not be here.”

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The Magnums Accommodation Airlie Beach team accepting their awards last Friday night. Photo credit: R Jean Photography

From left to right: Dianne Flood, Evelyn Anderson (Executive Manager), Elizabeth Hackett (Executive Chairperson) and Julie Young

Pit Pony Tavern has come home from the 2023 Tourism Awards with the coveted Collinsville Business of the Year award.

Janet Lobegeier, manager of the Pit Pony Tavern was excited to be named winner.

“It is always exciting to have your hard work recognised,” she said.

“Everyone here at the Pit Pony plays a role in making the hotel a successful business.”

However, this isn’t the first time Pit Pony Tavern has been recognised for their outstanding work, being Winner of Large Business in 2016, and Queensland Hotel Association Finalist in 2022.

“The team at Pit Pony Tavern always provides great service clean and affordable accommodation for guests and locals,” explained Janet.

Janet would like to thank the entire team of Pit Pony Tavern for their hard work.

“The whole team plays a role in making us successful from junior kitchen hands, housekeeping to our amazing restaurant and bar staff.”

Having been operating for over 30 years, the initial 25 as Collinsville Town and Country Hotel, and the most recent nine years as Pit Pony Tavern, the Tavern is steeped in Collinsville history.

“We are the only hotel in Collinsville, with 52 accommodation rooms, restaurant and public Bar, and Keno TAB Gaming,” said Janet.

“The hotel had a full refurbishment nine years ago changing its name and identity, and the hotel also has Pit Pony Memorabilia throughout the restaurant, telling the story of the Pit Ponies in mining.”

“Come and take a drive out, stay a night, enjoy great service, and check out the town’s history, at Pit Pony Capital.”

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Nigel and Janet Lobegeier from the Pit Pony Tavern. Photo supplied

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In a clean sweep this year, Queens Beach Tourist Village has taken out silver in the Caravan And Holiday Parks category.

Owner and operator Jennie Greer was ecstatic at the win.

“It doesn’t matter what colour the award is, we won, and it feels absolutely amazing. We’re over the moon.”

“Of course, this result is because of our amazing staff. We are proud of every single staff member,” Jennie said.

“This award is a testament to the care, dedication, and passion that our staff have, and who make the impact for guests and the park.”

Jennie and her husband Peter took on the park in January 2019 and have since been implanting upgrades and changes to the park, to ensure guest satisfaction and enjoyment.

This was a big part of their submission for the awards.

“We covered everything but particularly the improvements that we have made to the park. We are consistently looking at what can be improved and upgraded in the park,” she explained.

“We also shared our charity work that we have done, particularly with Bowen Country Women’s Association. Not only did our charity work have a great result, but we had a lot of fun doing it. We enjoy putting back into the community, and so many businesses got involved and had fun with us.

“But, if it wasn’t for the guests getting behind us, the charity work wouldn’t have been as successful.”

The park now turns their attention to the 2023 Grey Nomad Awards, where they have been successful for the past few years taking out the Best Grey Nomad Large Caravan Park award.

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Peter and Jennie Greer, and Gerry and Mark Tomsett. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge

By Amanda Wright

Picture this: a community coming together to champion equal access to top-notch healthcare. In a world where our health knows no bounds, last Thursday marked an extraordinary act of unity, as Mackay Hospital Foundation's Giving Day rallied the masses.

The mission was crystal clear: bridge the healthcare gap and ensure every family's health journey knows no disadvantages based on their postcode.

With the team from Gardian among many individuals generously donating their time, the telethon event commenced at 8am. With coffee and croissants in hand, by 8pm the fundraising target of $70,000 was impressively surpassed, with the campaign reaching more than $95,000, thanks to the passionate community including Giving Day’s ‘matched donors’.

Bridging Healthcare Gaps With Giving Day

Mackay Hospital Foundation’s Giving Day event welcomed Dylan Holmes as its ambassador. Dylan's presence added a powerful, real-world dimension to the proceedings. At the age of 42, and with no prior symptoms, he experienced a sudden cardiac arrest. The presence of a defibrillator at his workplace and the quick action of his colleagues and paramedics were the key factors behind this success story, underscoring the pivotal role that hospitals like Mackay Base play in providing life-saving care.

Dylan acknowledges that his survival on that day was the result of the combined efforts of his workmates at Jennmar Australia, the Queensland Ambulance team who were soon on site and the Mackay Base Hospital’s emergency, cardiac and intensive care teams who provided surgery and follow-up care.

Mackay Base Hospital Cardiologist Dr Dominika Budzbon spoke at the Giving Day breakfast and said that Mr Holmes’ cardiac arrest was caused by very fast and abnormal heart rhythm.

“After a period of stabilisation in hospital, we decided he needs protection from any possible event like that in the future.”

Dr Budzbon explained that Mr Holmes became the first patient in Mackay to receive an implant of a subcutaneous defibrillator (ICD).

“This is a clever and highly programmable processor which recognises dangerous heart rhythms and works out what to do with it,” Dr Budzbon said.

“It is suitable for patients who only need a device to shock the heart, and do not need the support of a pacemaker as well.”

Matched donors on Giving Day, playing a vital role, generously contributed to the cause. Notable contributors included Anglo American and Isaac Regional Council, with additional support from CFMEU, Mackay Base Hospital Auxiliary, Pembroke Olive Downs, Abbot Point Terminal, and Sons of the Southern Cross Motorcycle Club. Adding to this spirit of generosity were other donors, such as Mackay West Rotary Club, M & P Services, and the Austral Hotel, who had pledged their support in advance.

Local radio stations, Star 101.9 and Hit FM, actively joined in, lending their voices to further amplify the event's community appeal. Kristi Algate, General Manager of the Mackay Hospital Foundation, urged the community to embrace generosity and highlighted the importance of making healthcare a universal right, irrespective of regional or rural location.

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Matched donors, sponsors and members of the Mackay Hospital Foundation gathered to launch Giving Day with a breakfast at Mackay Base Hospital. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

Mackay Hospital Foundation donors and supporters at the Giving Day Breakfast at Mackay Base Hospital. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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This year, Nell Thomsett’s daughter Millie spent two weeks at Mackay Base Hospital on two separate occasions. If it wasn’t for the Ronald McDonald House (RMH) Family Room, this challenging time would have been more of a struggle.

Diagnosed with a kidney infection, Millie ended up staying five nights in hospital during her first visit. Amidst the difficulties, the Ronald McDonald Family Room at Mackay Base Hospital played a pivotal role in alleviating the burden for Ms Thomsett, Millie, and their entire family.

Nell expressed her gratitude, saying, "It was just amazing. My husband would bring the kids up at night after they had finished work and sport. We were able to eat as a family and spend time together. I was able to see our other two kids, and they were able to see their sister."

In a horror health year for the youngster, she also got appendicitis resulting in the removal of her appendix.

Last week, it was noticed by the pair that RMH was reaching out to the community for donations. Nell says, “Millie popped up and said: ‘Can we go shopping for them, please?’”

The pair filled their trolley with an array of groceries to help families in need, including brownie mix, cooking trays, coffee, snacks and treats and gluten-free items. Nell mentioned that Millie hand-picked everything from the supermarket herself.

The items are stored away until a family comes in to stay and they can use the items.

“The space is run by volunteers who are just lovely, they help you in any way they can. They were very thankful, as the stocks were running low,” Nell added.

Nell and Millie encourage the community to become volunteers or donate towards the Ronald McDonald House charity, who provide a nice place to escape to that doesn’t feel like a hospital.

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Millie with her haul of groceries for RMH – Photo supplied

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