A major upgrade to the Collinsville Aerodrome has been completed, with the Whitsunday Regional Council delivering significant improvements that will enhance safety, reliability, and access for aeromedical services and other essential air operations.

The project, delivered in partnership with the State and Federal Governments, involved a full suite of airside and infrastructure upgrades to bring the regional aerodrome up to modern operational standards.

Works included the installation of a new fauna-proof perimeter fence and secure vehicle gates to strengthen airside safety, as well as the reshaping, strengthening, and sealing of the central 18 metres of the previously gravel runway.

New LED lighting was also installed throughout the airfield, including ground lighting re-spaced to 60-metre intervals, upgraded apron flood lighting, and a new illuminated wind direction indicator.

A replacement pilot-activated lighting system and lighting control cubicle were also installed, along with a dedicated pathway linking the terminal to the apron to assist with stretcher transfers.

Whitsunday Regional Council Director of Commercial Operations, Craig Turner, said the upgrades represented a major win for Collinsville and the broader northern region.

“The works completed at Collinsville Aerodrome are a fantastic example of what can be achieved when local government works hand-in-hand with State and Commonwealth partners,” he said.

“These upgrades not only enhance operational safety for all users but provide a significant benefit to aeromedical services such as the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS), which relies on dependable airstrips to deliver life-saving care.”

Division 4 Councillor Michelle Wright said the upgraded facility was a win for Collinsville and a direct result of strong community advocacy.

“This was one of the top priorities I heard from residents when I was first elected and I’ve fought hard to make sure it stayed on the agenda,” Cr Wright said.

“I’m incredibly proud to see this major upgrade delivered on time and under budget after 14 months of dedicated work. It’s a big step forward for Collinsville.

“Whether it’s supporting emergency medical retrievals, enabling safe charter flights, or preparing for future economic opportunities, the aerodrome now meets the standard our community deserves.

“Council is proud to have delivered this project, and I’ll continue pushing for the infrastructure our region needs to thrive,” Cr Wright said.

The Royal Flying Doctor Service (Queensland Section) also welcomed the improvements, describing the Collinsville Aerodrome as a vital part of their emergency response capability.

“The Royal Flying Doctor Service (Queensland Section) recognises the Collinsville Aerodrome as a lifeline for the local community, ensuring timely access to essential healthcare and life-saving aeromedical retrievals,” said Clayton Nankivell, Head of Flying Operations.

“We sincerely thank the Whitsunday Regional Council, along with the State and Federal Governments, for their support and investment in vital runway upgrades that will enable us to continue delivering care when it’s needed most.”

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The upgraded Collinsville Aerodrome is now equipped with a new illuminated wind direction indicator, a new fauna-proof perimeter fence and a newly sealed 18 metre runway. Photos supplied

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The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry has today released the full program for the 2025 Whitsunday Business Conference — a flagship event designed to inspire, inform, and connect the region’s business leaders, operators, and entrepreneurs.

Held as a full-day conference in Cannonvale, the program showcases an impressive lineup of keynote speakers, industry panels, practical sessions, and networking opportunities tailored to the needs of the Whitsunday business community.

Mayor Ry Collins will officially open the event, including a major announcement confirming Whitsunday Regional Council’s formal commitment as a Small Business Friendly Council, reinforcing the region’s dedication to creating a more supportive environment for local enterprise.

Leading the day’s discussions is acclaimed business coach Judy Porter from Shiift, delivering the keynote address Get Out of Your Own Way — a call to action for business owners and leaders to step into their potential and drive purposeful growth.

A feature panel discussion, Working Better Together – From Vision to Impact, will bring together regional leaders to explore how collaboration is delivering real outcomes in infrastructure, housing, investment, and community development. Panellists include Elizabeth Hackett (Whitsunday Skyway), Terry Archer (Whitsunday Sailing Club), Justin Butler (Club Whitsunday), and Carol Norris (Greater Whitsunday Communities).

A networking segment will follow — Get Connected: Who’s Here to Help Your Business? — that will provide businesses with direct access to regional agencies and programs offering growth and support solutions.

Throughout the day, attendees will participate in four streams of concurrent sessions covering essential topics such as leadership, finance, workforce growth, marketing, customer service, digital innovation, and community partnerships.

A networking segment titled Get Connected: Who’s Here to Help Your Business? will provide businesses with direct access to regional agencies and programs offering growth and support solutions.

The conference will close with an energising plenary, Power Up: What’s Next for Your Business?, a motivational finale focused on next steps and sustaining business momentum.

The 2025 Whitsunday Business Conference promises to be an unmissable event for anyone seeking practical knowledge, strategic insight, and meaningful business connections.

What: The 2025 Whitsunday Business Conference
When: 9am-5pm Thursday 28 August 2025
Where: TAFE Queensland Whitsunday campus, Cannonvale
Registration: Via the Chamber's website.

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Zephyr is a sweet and gentle boy who has already overcome so much. He was rescued from a remote pound in Kowanyama and made an incredible 1,279-kilometre journey to safety. Now in foster care, he is slowly gaining confidence and learning to enjoy the comforts of home life.

Zephyr has a lovely, submissive nature and gets along well with other dogs. He doesn’t need much in life – just a comfortable couch, a safe environment and a family willing to give him the love and patience he deserves.

Zephyr enjoys:
• Staying home and relaxing on the couch
• Lounging around all day
• The company of other dogs
• Being near his people, though he is also content to sleep while you are at work

Zephyr would thrive in a calm, kind household with people who are happy to take things slow and help him build trust, especially with men. He is recovering from heartworm treatment and will need gentle lead training once he is ready.

The adoption fee includes:
• Desexing
• Microchipping
• Vaccinations
• Flea, tick and worm treatment
• Proheart injection

If you'd like to adopt Zephyr contact Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc:
• Phone: 0459 757 455
• Facebook: Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue
• Email: bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com

Rehoming fee: $650
Breed: Kelpie X
Age: 3 years
Sex: Male
Other dogs: Yes
Fences: 6ft

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Adopt Zephyr today! Photo sourced.

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Here in the Whitsundays, we’re lucky to live in a place that’s as popular with visitors as it is with locals. Tourism is a huge part of our economy—but so is our quality of life. And when the two intersect, it’s important we get the balance right.

That’s why Council is proposing a change to our Planning Scheme to help better manage where short-term accommodation (STA), like Airbnbs, can operate in Low Density Residential areas.

Right now, STAs are allowed in many zones across the region.

But in quieter, suburban-style neighbourhoods, there’s no clear framework to guide decisions. That makes it tough for both Council and the community when it comes to assessing applications.

We’re not looking to ban short-term accommodation—in fact, it brings in more than $174 million a year and plays a critical role during peak seasons and major events. But we also know some areas aren’t always the right fit for high visitor turnover.

So, we’re proposing a new, three-pronged approach:

A Planning Scheme amendment to map out areas where short-term accommodation may be supported, based on how land is already being used and community feedback.
A licensing system, including a complaints process and a ‘three strikes’ rule, to ensure good operators can continue and problem properties are held to account.
And longer-term housing planning—because this is also about making sure locals can find a place to live, not just visit.

This isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. We’ve drawn up precincts for potential STA use based on existing patterns, past approvals, and what we’ve heard from you.

Now, we want to hear more with another round of community consultation that kicked off on June 11 June and runs until Sunday 20 July.

We’ll be holding info stalls in Cannonvale, Bowen, Airlie Beach and Dingo Beach—so come along and have a yarn. You can also fill out an online survey or send us an email directly.

Visit Your Say Whitsunday to find out more and get involved. Because when it comes to balancing homes and holidays, your voice truly matters.

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Cannonvale local and Endeavour Foundation’s Learning & Lifestyle Hub participant, Jenny, is stepping into a newly created, national role.

Selected as one of only five people with disability Australia-wide, Jenny will now participate in a new Client Advisory Group — a national initiative by Endeavour Foundation offering people with disability a chance to make valuable contributions towards the organisation’s future.

Endeavour Foundation is one of Australia’s largest disability service providers, supporting people with intellectual disability to live their best lives through home, work and community programs.

Approaching its 75th year, the organisation recently launched a new constitution, including the key innovation of the Client Advisory Group which meets bi-monthly and provides feedback on policies, programs, and services.

“Excitement, I want to do this for a long time. I am happy to give advice because some people don’t know.  If you don’t get it out there, then people don’t know,” Jenny said.

Over the years, Jenny’s journey from a participant at the Learning & Lifestyle Hub to a national voice for disability rights, shows her growth as a leader and a leading advocate.

Not only has she fronted Endeavour Foundation’s recent Accessible Tourism videos with fellow Cannonvale participant, Charlie, but has actively sought advocacy role and shared her lived experience and story to help empower others.

“I like people to know that they are welcome to come, be happy and be helpful. People with a disability like help.  It is true. That’s what you do.  You can make friends,” Jenny said.

“With Endeavour I learn to get on with others and how to be helpful.  Patience.  Not many people learn to be patient. Communication, I learn how to talk to people and learn to be more independent,” concluded Jenny.

Endeavour Foundation Site Manager, Sabiné Mollone said, “Jenny brings great energy and perspective to the group. She’s been a reliable advocate for her local area and is growing in confidence with every meeting.

“Her contributions already include input on Endeavour’s independent living options, inclusive recruitment practices, and feedback on how to improve easy-read documents.

“The committee also discusses how technology and automation can better support people with disability in daily life,” added Sabiné.

To find out more about Endeavour Foundation’s support services and how they support people with disability, visit www.endeavour.com.au or contact 1800 112 112.

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Jenny from the Endeavour Foundation Learning & Lifestyle hub in Cannonvale. Photos supplied

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The Whitsunday Lions Club have recently made a $3000 donation to St Catherine's Christian College's Duke of Edinburgh International Award (DofE).

The schools DofE teacher Shantae Ryle runs the course with PCYC Sergeant (Sgt) Billy Li and they greatly appreciate the donation.

This is the first time the school has run the program and the support from Whitsunday Lions Club has funded the students to enrol in the course.

The Whitsunday Lions Club is always donating to schools and community groups across the region but they said the DofE is highly regarded and a great way to do outdoor activities while building skills.

“It’s nice to see people taking a step back and not being so focused on social media, there’s an awful lot of it today, and it’s nice to see them doing something out of their comfort zone,” they said.

“They don't realise it yet; how important it will be later on.

“Encouraging the kids to do this sort of thing is wonderful.”

In DofE campaign at St Catherine's Catholic College, Tuesday is fitness with Sgt Billy Li and he noted that fitness levels have already gone up. Wednesdays students are in the classroom, where they have already discovered their favourite activities.

The class noted that their favourite activities were getting to work together as a team and also improving on their public speaking skills.

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Students from St Catherine's Catholic College with Sergeant Billy Li, Teacher Shantae Ryle, and Members of Whitsunday Lions Club Sue Gravelle, Betty Wilson, and Sue Cobham. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Earlier this month, I had the pleasure of heading to Brisbane for the official launch of Destination 2045: Delivering Queensland’s Tourism Future, hosted by QTIC. It was a major moment for our industry, with over 500 passionate tourism leaders in the room and a clear message: the future of tourism in Queensland is bold, sustainable and full of opportunity.

The plan outlines how we’ll make the most of Queensland’s “green and gold runway” - capitalising on the momentum of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games to boost tourism before, during and long after the main event. It’s all about turning global attention into lasting benefits for our communities and natural environments.

With new investment in aviation, events, ecotourism and tourism infrastructure, Destination 2045 sets out a 20-year roadmap to position Queensland as a world leader in tourism and events. And for regions like ours, that means more chances to grow, innovate and showcase the best of what we offer - from the Reef to the rainforest and everything in between.

We then brought the conversation home on Wednesday the 4th, when the Hon. Andrew Powell, Minister for Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation joined us in Airlie Beach. It was fantastic to hear how this plan translates locally.

And we finished the week with QTIC’s World Environment Day event at Shute Harbour, joined by Craig Davidson from Tourism and Events Queensland and Tash Wheeler from QTIC - spotlighting our commitment to protecting the incredible natural beauty that makes The Whitsundays so special.

Contributed by Tim Booth, CEO, Tourism Whitsundays

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Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth, Hon Andrew Powell, Chair of Tourism Whitsundays Julie Telford, and Elizabeth Hackett. Photo supplied

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Friday 20th June
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Graham Rix(from 8pm)
KC's: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)

Saturday 21st June
Airlie Beach Hotel: Cold Chisel & Midnight Oil Tributes with Swanee (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: DJ Night (from 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: (Live Music & DJ Session 1pm – 6pm)
KC's: Retro Joe (from 8pm)

Sunday 22nd June
Airlie Beach Hotel: Cold Chisel & Midnight Oil Tributes with Swanee (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30 – 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Graham Rix (4pm - 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: Chill Acoustic Session (2pm – 6pm)
KC's: Nick di Gregorio (from 8pm)

Monday 23rd June
KC's: Scotty Wilson (from 8pm)

Tuesday 24th June
KC's: Josiah (from 8pm)

Wednesday 25th June
KC's: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm)

Thursday 26th June
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
KC's: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm)

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June

20 Whitsundays 112th Annual Regional Show Day 1, Proserpine Showgrounds

21 Whitsundays 112th Annual Regional Show Day 2, Proserpine Showgrounds

22 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

24 Sailability, Downstairs at the Whitsunday Sailing Club, Volunteers 8:00am-2:00pm & Sailors/Carers 9:00am-1:00pm, Bookings Required

24 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

25 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp

27 Legends Night by Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network, Reef Gateway Hotel, 6pm - 9pm

29 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

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It’s been a pretty quiet week across the Whitsundays fishing scene, with patchy weather and cooler conditions keeping many anglers at bay. That said, those who have braved the conditions have been rewarded with some quality fish. Let’s hope next winter isn’t as cold as this one has been!

Dam
Thanks to poor conditions, the dam has seen limited traffic this week. Those who headed out managed to get a fish or two, but most catches were modest in size. We did have a couple of reports of nice barra though, which were landed by slow trolling along the edge of the weed beds.

Estuary
The standout this week has been the estuary fishing. Grunter have been around in both good numbers and size, with fresh bait proving to be the key to success. Creek mouths and deeper channels have been the most productive areas.

We’ve also had reports of decent mud crabs being caught. Dropping pots into deeper holes with fresh bait has yielded the best results.

Islands & Offshore
Offshore action has been sporadic but promising in patches. The charter boats have reported some quality coral trout and large nannygai coming over the side.

While bottom fishing has been steady, the real excitement has been on the surface. Mackerel and tuna are thick at the moment, and those chasing them on topwater lures have enjoyed some incredible air strike sessions – an absolute thrill for anyone keen on visual fishing.

The weekend is set to be a windy one, with wind easing during the week. Rug up and do your best to find somewhere protected!

Best of luck out there!

Contributed with thanks to Beth Hockley and Jason Fisher from Tackle World Airlie Beach

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Whitsundays local, Nikki, ticking a Golden Trevally off her list. Photo supplied

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The wait is over—just like a female’s gestation period—and the baby has arrived!

The roof is on, and now the final touches are underway: securing it for a category 5 cyclone, installing downpipes and a drain for excess water, finishing the fences, and before long our little club will be a wonderful sight in our paradise. It’s something the whole community can be proud of.

A big thank you to Amanda Camm for securing the extra funding for those finer finishing touches—it’s much appreciated by all members. Now we no longer have to cancel the schoolchildren if the weather is bad, and the beautiful people from the Endeavour Foundation can come every week, rain, hail or shine.

The revenue we’ve lost over the last seven months will be made up in no time. Free bowls lessons will now be a regular event on Monday and Thursday afternoons between 4 and 5pm, and soon there’ll be cover from the carpark right to the front entrance.

It’s perfect timing too, with the Australian Open currently on in Brisbane.

Anyone in the community is welcome to come down and give bowls a try—or to book their functions now with confidence.

We’re all so excited and can’t wait for the grand opening day!

Contibuted with thanks to Mark Mawson

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The new roof at Airlie Beach Bowls Club. Photo supplied

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In a heartfelt gesture Annie Norris recently donated her hair to Wigs4Kids after finding out that Reverend (Rev) Suzy Sitton, from her church, had been diagnosed with breast cancer for the second time earlier in the year.

Annie said she was inspired by Suzy.

“I have been so inspired by watching her strength, her recovery, her focus and still while conducting funerals and soldiering on really well,” she said.

"I can honestly say my inspiration has come from Susie, just watching this woman and what she's been through, oh my gosh. She really is a hero. She's a hero to me."

Annie had been thinking about cutting her hair and when she found out about Suzy she decided to go ahead, in an effort to show support for a woman she found so inspiring,

Rev Suzy Sitton said she appreciates Annie for donating, and is currently spending her time raising awareness for breast cancer, and is supporting Breast Cancer Research.

Rev Suzy hopes that she can become a success story for others and also noted that the Mobile Breast screening clinic is currently in the region. It is currently at Whitsunday Plaza in Cannonvale.

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Annie Norris and Rev Suzy Sitton before the haircut
Jodi Lorraway, Annie Norris and Rev Suzy Sitton after the cut.

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Bowen State High School Student Olivia Boyce was one of 60 Year 10 students and 10 teachers selected to participate in the Department of Education’s 2025 STEM Girl Power Camp, which was held on 19 - 23 May in Brisbane.

Students travelled from all over Queensland to represent their school in Brisbane, where they participated in a variety of events, innovative science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) workshops and networking opportunities with experts from STEM fields.

Camp students met inspiring role models from diverse fields including, engineering, medicine, chemistry, quantum technologies and mathematical modelling. Students explored STEM pathways at an industry location of their choosing (either Cross River Rail, TechnologyOne, the Ecosciences Precinct or the Integrated Pathology Learning Centre) and discussed the importance of STEM communication at the Queensland Museum and Wheel of Brisbane. Students also participated in a variety of hands-on activities, including world-class biomedical research techniques at SPARQ-ed and led science activities with local primary school students.

The camp fostered students' understanding of STEM's significance in society while enhancing their leadership, critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and communication skills. As 2025 STEM Ambassadors, these students will now organise and deliver a STEM event during National Science Week in Term 3 (August 2025). This initiative aims to inspire others to pursue STEM subjects and careers.

Olivia enjoyed the experience immensively and said "It was one of the best experiences I have ever had throughout my schooling."

"This opportunity has provided me with the knowledge and skills to continue to peruse my interests in STEM throughout my senior studies at Bowen SHS.”

Principal Mr Harris was excited by the opportunities that are available for students at Bowen State High School.

“Our students are exposed to a range of opportunities in STEM, Arts and Sport," he said.

"I strongly encourage students to embrace opportunities that become available to them.”

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The Whitsunday Game Fish Club’s new season kicks off on July 1, with an exciting program planned for all members.

First up is the Mackerel and Reef Fish Rally, taking place on July 19–20. (Reef fish have been added due to Queensland’s mackerel bag and boat limits.) A briefing and educational workshop will be held at 6pm on Thursday, July 17, at the Marine Club on Altmann Avenue, Cannonvale. Topics include rigging trolling baits, lure presentation, and angling techniques for Spanish mackerel and reef fish.

The workshop is a great opportunity—especially for juniors—to join the club, learn new skills, and get involved in the fun, family sport of light tackle game fishing.

Membership is $70 for adults and $35 for juniors, with half going to the Queensland Game Fishing Association, which advocates for anglers, helps protect fisheries, and manages the tag-and-release program.

The club’s competitions are designed around the wide variety of game fish available throughout the year in Whitsunday waters. The major three-day Light Tackle Tournament is set for October when sailfish, tuna, and juvenile black marlin are most active.

Game fishing clubs promote ethical and sporting angling, with a focus on juniors, workshops, and shared knowledge in a welcoming club environment.

Contributed with thanks to Ashley Moore

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Region Picks Up Two First Place

On Monday this week The Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC) announced the 2025 winners of the Top Tourism Town Awards, recognising the outstanding contributions of communities across the state in welcoming visitors year-round.

For the first time ever, Bowen won the Top Tourism Town Awards and Airlie Beach won the Small Tourism Town Awards for the fourth time in a row.

Winning these two awards is not only a testament to the natural wonders we have on our doorstep but also an acknowledgment of the friendly faces throughout our region.

Bowen and Airlie Beach Take Out Top Tourism Honours

Bowen has had a huge few weeks, on Queensland Day Bowen’s Big Mango was named ‘Best Big Thing’ in Queensland and Birds Fish Bar was named ‘Best Fish and Chips’, now for the first time they have won Top Tourism Town in Queensland.

Member for Burdekin Hon Dale Last MP said this is a testament to the whole community.

“This award is well deserved by Bowen’s tourism businesses and the community as a whole.  Whether they are directly involved with tourism or not, Bowen residents are extremely vocal and parochial when it comes to their town, and I am sure those qualities contributed to Bowen securing the award,” he said.

“Take a bow Bowen, you deserve this and I am glad to see your efforts receiving the wide acclaim they deserve.”

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business Leanne Abernethy said winning the award was a proud moment.

“This award capped off a fantastic couple of weeks,” she said.

“These awards are a testament to the dedication of our entire team of staff, volunteers and our supportive committee and I thank them all for their passion, their drive and their local knowledge.

“This award is also for the entire Bowen community and the entire Whitsundays region. We thank everyone for the support of what we do.”

Chair of Bowen Tourism and Business Jenn Honnery said this award proves that Bowen’s focus is on visitors and making sure they feel welcome and providing an amazing beachside experience.

Alongside Bowen, Airlie Beach was also in the national spotlight, after winning the Top Small Tourism Town for the fourth time in a row.

Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP said this award proves that Airlie Beach is a premier tourism destination.

Not only is Airlie Beach the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the Whitsunday Islands, it is also a dynamic town in its own right, with a vibrant local culture for both visitors and locals to enjoy. Congratulations to the residents, businesses and tourism operators of Airlie Beach who have collectively achieved this accolade.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said both Bowen and Airlie Beach winning is a fantastic achievement for the whole region.

“We've won before, but it really reaffirms our position as Queensland's top area for regional tourism,” he said.

“From my perspective, it's not just about individuals. This is a whole of community effort.

“We know that these awards are voted on by visitors in the community and it’s a real reflection on the community itself.

“Our residents are warm and welcoming to visitors and the fantastic efforts by our businesses and tourism bodies make sure our region stands out.”

Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth also said it was great to see the region reaching these heights.

“It’s such an honour to see Airlie Beach take out the Small Tourism Town award for the fourth year in a row. It really shows the heart and hard work of our local tourism operators and community,” he said.

"And with Bowen claiming the title of Top Tourism Town, it’s a fantastic day for the entire Whitsunday region.

"A huge thank you to Whitsunday Regional Council for their ongoing support - these achievements wouldn’t be possible without them.”

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Chair of Bowen Tourism and Business Jenn Honnery, Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth, and Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business Leanne Abernethy celebrating their win. Photo supplied

Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth, Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business Leanne Abernethy, Top Tour Guide Winner Joel McPherson, and Representing 1770 Top Tiny Tourism Town Winner Melissa Smith. Photo supplied

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