Hi Everyone,

Whale season is here, and I’m eagerly awaiting the first sighting!

This is truly my favorite time of year, there’s nothing quite like watching them swim alongside their calves, and send plumes of spray into the sky.

To celebrate, I have had the idea to launch a fun new feature in Ruth2Reef called Whale Watch Weekly! If you capture a photo of one of these incredible whales, please send it to ruth@lifepublishinggroup.com. Your photo could be featured in an upcoming edition, with full credit to you, of course!

And if you come across any other inspiring or interesting environmental stories, I’d love to read those too, so please feel free to send them my way.

Happy whale watching,

Ruth

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The first humpback whales we are likely to see close to the islands are pregnant females or females with newborns.

Humpback mothers with calves spend as much of their time logging as possible.

Logging is a form of rest where humpback whales float motionless near the water's surface, much like a log.

They remain near the surface with their blowholes exposed to the air, allowing them to breathe.

Whales must remain conscious while sleeping to breathe. During this resting state, humpback whales shut down only one hemisphere of their brain at a time while the other remains active.

Mothers also spend time logging to conserve energy, because they are relying on their fat reserves to produce 600 litres of milk per day for her calf; until she returns to her feeding grounds in the Antarctic.

It’s important to be on the lookout for whales during the next couple of months, because logging whales can be extremely hard to see.

Last season there was an injured whale reported off Hamilton Island’s Qualia Resort.

It was a good news story.  After watching her behaviour for a period of time I was pleased to report she was logging with her calf near her nose.

The first photo is logging behaviour.  In the second photo she was no longer logging and has more of a hump.

Please report sick, injured or dead marine life on 1300 130 372

To find out more about special whale events and information on whales in the Whitsundays, join the WHALES OF THE WHITSUNDAYS Facebook page; or go to https://www.whitsundaymarine.org/projects

Contributed by Kellie Leonard, Master Reef Guide/Whales of the Whitsundays

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A once-abandoned gold mine near Proserpine is drawing renewed attention after modern testing revealed the presence of a large, mineralised system, with only a small area explored to date.

The historic Dittmer Mine, discovered in 1934 and closed in 1951 after producing more than 54,000 ounces of gold, is being revived by Ballymore Resources. The company rekindled interest in the site last year after mapping and sampling unearthed several high-grade gold zones. Underground explorations have since reopened, alongside the launch of a 3,000-metre diamond drilling program.

Spanning 513 square kilometres, the broader exploration project has also received a $300,000 grant from the Queensland Government to support an 8,051 line kilometre aerial survey. The area includes multiple historic gold and copper prospects.

If mining proceeds, potential extraction methods would include cyanide leaching and flotation, with metallurgical tests confirming the ore is suitable for such processing. However, the prospect of renewed mining has raised environmental concerns among some local residents, particularly around water quality, road access, and impacts on native wildlife.

To address these concerns, Whitsunday MP Amanda Camm visited the Dittmer community recently to engage with residents and provide updates on the project's status. Approximately 60 locals attended the meeting, where Ms Camm emphasised her commitment to transparent communication and due process.

“The current application for development is sitting with the land court to make an independent decision. The hearing was held on the 6th of May and the court has six months to make a decision.”

Ms Camm reassured residents that their concerns would remain central to any decisions moving forward.
“I am committed to representing the priorities and concerns of the Dittmer community, while ensuring any potential development adheres to strict regulation and controls,” she said.

Once a decision is handed down, Ms Camm said she would consult with the relevant Minister to determine the next steps for the project.

The visit provided a platform for open dialogue between community members and government, with residents raising a range of concerns from environmental protections to infrastructure and local wildlife preservation.

As the process unfolds, both residents and project stakeholders will be watching closely to see whether the Land Court’s decision will pave the way for Dittmer Mine’s next chapter or bring its revival to a halt.

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Amanda Camm, speaks with Dittmer residents about the mine
Around 60 locals attended the meet

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The Whitsundays will soon play host to one of Australia’s most respected economic voices.

David Robertson, Chief Economist at Bendigo Bank, is heading to Proserpine on Thursday, 10 July for a special community event – and everyone’s invited.

Known for his ability to make complex economic trends easy to understand, David’s engaging and down-to-earth style has earned him a strong following, including on his popular YouTube series.

With more than two decades at Bendigo and Adelaide Bank and a career spanning senior roles at major financial institutions, David brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. At this free event, he’ll break down what’s really happening in the economy—from interest rates and employment trends to property values and the Australian dollar.

Hosted by Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine, this is a rare opportunity to hear firsthand from a leading expert about the financial forces shaping our country—and what it could all mean for local families, businesses, and the Whitsundays region.

Don’t miss out! Whether you’re a business owner, first homebuyer, retiree, or just curious about what’s ahead for the economy, this event is designed for everyone.

**What: Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine Chief Economist event
When: 7:30am–9am Friday, 11 July 2025
Where: Filby’s Motors, Proserpine
Registration: Free event, open to all. RSVP by Wednesday, 9 July via secretary@whitsundaycel.com.au

Can’t make it? David will be presenting at the Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce’s New Financial Year breakfast, 7:30am Tuesday, 8 July in Mackay. This special event is proudly sponsored by Community Bank Sarina, celebrating 20 years in the community this year.

**Over $211,500 Invested Back Into Our Region – and We're Just Getting Started!

For the past eight years, your locally owned Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine has proudly backed regional not-for-profits with more than $211,500 in support — and we’re not slowing down.

In 2025 alone, we’ve provided funding to local sporting clubs, community groups, and iconic regional events. You’ve probably seen our fully equipped BBQ Community Trailer firing up most weekends across the Whitsundays!

“Our profit-with-purpose model means the more our community banks with us, the more we can reinvest,” says Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine Chairman, Mark Henry. “It’s a cycle of support — when you back us, we back you.”

We’re proud to sponsor several exciting upcoming events — and we can’t wait to see you there!

• Show Whitsunday (20 and 21 June)
• Cannonvalley Pony Club’s 2-day show jumping and jump equitation event (26–27 July)
• The Great Barrier Reef Festival Arts Exhibition, curated by Creative Connections Whitsunday. The Branch has sponsored the People’s Choice Award (31 July–4 August)
• Cannonvale State School Fete (8 August)
• Coral Sea Marina Result Airlie Beach Triathlon (16–17 August)
• Whitsunday Moto Sports Club’s Great Barrier Reef Title (15–17 August)
• Eco Barge Clean Seas fundraiser at the Flametree Festival (29 August–1 September)
• Whitsunday Writers Festival (12–14 September)
• Whitsunday Trail Fest’ Kids Beach Bash (14 September)
• Paul Bowman Challenge junior rugby league under 9’s carnival involving 70 teams (20–21 September)

Want Support for Your Next Event or Project? Apply Now!

Applications are now open for sponsorship funding and use of our popular Community BBQ Trailer. With limited funds available and high demand, it’s a competitive process — so make sure your application stands out!

To learn more and grab an application form, contact our Board Secretariat at secretary@whitsundaycel.com.au

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On Thursday, I had the privilege of welcoming guests to our Shute Harbour Marine Terminal to mark World Environment Day—a powerful reminder of why we must protect what makes our region so special.

As the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, our Whitsundays is one of the most ecologically significant places in the world. From our reef to our rainforest, we’re not just caretakers of the environment—we’re leaders in sustainable tourism.

Thursday’s event brought together environmental leaders, tourism operators, and community changemakers to focus not just on ideas, but on action.

A highlight was celebrating the launch of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) at Whitsunday Coast Airport—a major milestone in our region’s sustainability journey.

We were honoured to have Fiona Walmsley, General Manager of Sustainability, in attendance from Virgin Australia, and she shared their commitment to greener skies.

The adoption of SAF aligns perfectly with our region’s legacy of biodiversity protection and low-impact tourism. But none of it would be possible without strong partnerships—between Council, industry, and the operators who understand that our economic and environmental futures are intertwined.

Whether it’s sustainable aviation, reef-safe tourism, or grassroots green initiatives, we are united by the belief that tourism can and must be a force for good.

Thanks to QTIC for choosing the Whitsundays to host the event, our industry partners for their continued leadership, and every single person who came to listen, to share, and to act.

Together, we are creating a more resilient, sustainable Whitsundays—because our environment deserves nothing less.

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Whitsundays Dancing CEOs Crowned 2025 Fundraising Champions & Win Community Awareness Award

Coral Sea Marina’s Kate Purdie, SeaLink Whitsundays’ Julie Telford, Whitsunday Transit’s Candice Crossley and Whitsunday Family Dental’s Alice Harriott are officially ‘Dancing Queens’ after raising nearly a quarter-of-a-million dollars for Women’s Legal Service Queensland (WLSQ) at Brisbane’s City Hall on Saturday night.

Representing the Whitsundays as the region’s inaugural team of ‘Dancing CEOs’, these four women stepped out on stage not just to dance but also to shine a spotlight on the issue of domestic violence, and ultimately to benefit the thousands of women and children impacted by it each year, who turn to WLSQ for help.

Raising a staggering $238,734 of the $877,000 total – and beating Brisbane’s ‘Team Joanne Fricker and Lauren Holland’ to the top of the leaderboard by a mere $1,790 – the Whitsundays team was not only crowned Dancing CEOs’ 2025 Fundraising Champions but also won the Community Awareness Award.

Julie Telford said going into the event, they’d had three goals, all of which were met by that result.

“One was to raise as much money as possible for the vulnerable women and children in our communities and across our state, the majority of whom we will never meet, but whose hardships have touched our hearts,” she said.

“Next was to expose domestic violence for what it really is; to bring the issue out from behind closed doors, where we can challenge it as a community,” she continued.

“And finally, we wanted to have fun with the experience and bring our friends, families, and wonderful, generous, caring community along for the ride.”

Kate Purdie said none of those goals could have been reached without significant support.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Whitsunday community and the local businesses who have supported us,” she said.

Swapping their company roles for new personas as sea sirens for the night, the ladies’ performance was as much about fun as it was philanthropy, showcasing their individual and group dynamic, and capturing the essence of the Whitsundays as Queensland’s premier destination at the heart of the Great Barrier Reef.

The routine was choreographed by Che Pritchard from Brisbane’s Mad Dance House and coached locally by Chez O’Brien from Proserpine’s Chez’s House of Dance.

Alice Harriott said the dance had been modified when the team was just three months into rehearsals, due to a serious knee injury she sustained while skiing.

“I was determined to be on that stage in some capacity or another and am extremely grateful to have fulfilled that wish, but to my mind the challenges I faced in making that happen paled into insignificance by comparison to those faced by the women and children I was there to dance for,” she said.

Candice Crossley, who recruited her team-mates those many months ago, echoed these sentiments.

“It has been an honour and a privilege to dance together for the women and children of Queensland affected by domestic violence.” she said.

The entire team also acknowledged the considerable contribution made by their mentor Katelyn Aslett-Collins, a WLSQ Ambassador and Dancing CEOs alumni, whose dedication to the cause has been unwavering throughout.

For more information and to see event photos and video by the Whitsundays’ ‘Riptide Creative’, follow the ‘Team Whitsundays Dancing CEOs’ Facebook Page.

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This month, we meet Chamber members Jen and Doug O’Connor of Option Insurance Brokers—a new Whitsundays-based business offering personalised insurance solutions for businesses and individuals across Australia.

Established in 2024, Option Insurance Brokers provides tailored cover across all major insurance types, including business packages, liability, commercial motor, professional indemnity, cyber, home and contents, landlord and more. Drawing on over a decade of industry experience in both corporate and boutique brokerages, Jen and Doug set out to create a brokerage that reflects their core values: authenticity, transparency, and genuine service.

“Our motivation was to simplify insurance and make it accessible – cutting through the jargon to give clients peace of mind,” said Jen. “We take the time to understand each client’s circumstances and match them with the right protection.”

As the broader insurance market shifts toward digital convenience, Option Insurance Brokers is embracing a different trend—personalised, human-centred service. With rising premiums, more frequent natural disasters, and increasing policy complexity, the demand for trusted guidance and advocacy is stronger than ever.

Launching a new brand in a competitive industry has been their biggest challenge, but Jen and Doug are rising to it by building strong community relationships, maintaining a strong online presence, and ensuring every client experience leads to word-of-mouth referrals. They also remain agile, constantly reviewing the market to keep cover options competitive and relevant.

Their top tips for fellow business owners include:

Build relationships, not just a client list – Trust drives referrals.
Don’t wait for perfect – Start something, then improve it.
Know your numbers – Financial clarity enables growth.
Jen and Doug value being active Chamber members, saying, “"Being part of the Chamber connects us with supportive local businesses, providing community, collaboration, and resources that have helped us grow. We love the sense of community and the shared drive to see small businesses succeed in our region.”

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Jen and Doug O’Connor of Option Insurance Brokers. Photos supplied

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The Whitsundays is celebrating a historic milestone in its tourism industry, with over 120 local businesses across the region recognised in the 2025 Best of Queensland Experience Program (BOQEP). This record-breaking achievement cements the Whitsundays’ status as one of Queensland’s premier tourism destinations, showcasing the region’s diverse offerings and commitment to delivering world-class visitor experiences.

From boutique accommodations and exciting tours to unique attractions, delicious food and drink, and essential transport services, the honoured businesses represent the full spectrum of the Whitsundays’ vibrant tourism landscape. The BOQEP’s rigorous, independent assessment process evaluates businesses on customer feedback, digital presence, regional tourism membership, and formal accreditation — ensuring only the highest quality experiences earn the prestigious Best of Queensland stamp.

Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth praised the exceptional achievement:
“Tourism Whitsundays has seen a record level of businesses achieve BoQ status in 2025 which is a huge credit to the tourism businesses in the Whitsundays and a key reason for the ongoing success of the region. Well done to all of the operators that have achieved Best of Queensland this year.”

The Best of Queensland Experience Program is a joint initiative led by Tourism and Events Queensland, in partnership with Queensland’s Regional Tourism Organisations, the Queensland Tourism Industry Council, and the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation. The BOQEP stamp serves as a trusted mark of excellence, guiding visitors to the region’s top-quality tourism experiences and reinforcing the Whitsundays’ reputation as a must-visit destination for travellers from near and far.

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As the cooler months settle in, mid-winter is the perfect time to give your home a thorough deep clean. Beyond the usual dusting and vacuuming, focusing on upholstery, concrete surfaces, and rugs can transform your space into a fresh, healthy haven. Here are some expert tips to get started:

1. Upholstery Cleaning: Why Professionals Matter
   Your couches, chairs, and cushions absorb dust, oils, and allergens daily. Did you know that over time, dirty upholstery can become a hotspot for bacteria and mites? While regular vacuuming helps, professional cleaning is essential to remove deep-seated grime and refresh fabrics without damage. Experts use specialised equipment and eco-friendly solutions, ensuring your furniture looks and smells like new — perfect for Queensland’s humid climate.
2. Water Blasting Concrete: Restore Your Outdoor Spaces
   Outdoor areas take a beating from dust, pollen, and weather. Water blasting (or pressure cleaning) your concrete paths, patios, and driveways can remove stubborn stains, algae, and mould build-up. This not only improves your home’s curb appeal but also prevents slips and surface damage caused by grime. For safety and best results, it’s worth calling in professionals who know the right pressure settings to protect your surfaces.
3. Dusting Rugs: Don’t Forget This Step
   Rugs trap dust and allergens, affecting indoor air quality and dust can accumulate rapidly. Regular vacuuming helps, but occasional professional cleaning removes deep dust and revitalises fibres, extending your rug’s life and keeping your family healthier.

Ready for a complete mid-winter deep clean? Call the experts at Protect and Sanitise on 0406 039 486 for professional upholstery, rug cleaning, and more. Let them help you refresh your home safely and effectively!

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Did you Know?

This Friday 6 June is Queensland Day! Join us for a free community event at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre from 4pm as we celebrate all things maroon!

There’s something for everyone; free activities and facepainting for kids, market stalls, Aussie animal encounters, live music, circus shows, food vans and free lamingtons!

As the celebrations outside draw to a close, stick around for a special cinema screening of Crocodile Dundee – The Encore Cut at 7.30pm (tickets sold separately).

For more information, head to Council’s website.

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Over the weekend, seven members of our team proudly represented Life Publishing Group at the Queensland Country Press Awards (QCPA) in Brisbane.

We were absolutely thrilled when our publications each took home an award — Mackay and Whitsunday Life earned gold for Marketing Campaign of the Year, Burdekin Life received silver for Best ROP Feature, and our talented cadet journalist Victoria Velton was awarded bronze for Young Journalist of the Year for her powerful coverage of the floods in Hinchinbrook Life Newspaper.

It was truly heartwarming to see every one of our papers recognised. Even more special was knowing that each person in our team played a vital role in producing award-winning work. From our dedicated sales team brainstorming creative campaigns and diligently securing advertising, to the graphic designers and production crew bringing each issue to life with style and flair; from the journalists crafting stories filled with impact and heart, to our tireless distributors ensuring every paper reaches the community — this is a collective achievement we all share.

I feel deeply honoured to work alongside such incredible people every day.

During the awards dinner — a grand event with over 100 fellow newspaper professionals — I was caught by surprise when the Emcee mentioned a familiar name: Peter Lewis. Could this be the Peter Lewis from the Proserpine Guardian?

As I pondered approaching his table at the front, a small woman with short brown hair suddenly appeared nearby.

“Are you lot from the Whitsundays?” she asked.

We nodded, and within seconds, a warm connection was made. Peter Lewis is a true local newspaper legend. He and his wife Cynthia purchased the Proserpine Guardian in 1972. The paper, first established in 1904, sadly closed its doors in September 2014.

Peter began working at the paper in 1960, a year after his father bought it. Starting as a compositor — a typesetter — he recalled how back then you quickly learned every aspect of the trade. The Proserpine office was a traditional printer’s house, and I fondly remember Peter giving me a proud tour there 13 years ago.

Fast forward to the present, and we reconnected at the awards. I hadn’t realised before that Peter is a Life Member of QCPA and even served as its President during the 1980s. Meeting Peter and Cynthia at the awards night was an absolute honour. Their story reminds me of the enduring nature of our craft — how regional journalism transcends generations and continues to enrich our culture.

Thank you, Cynthia, for seeking out the ‘Whitsunday Table,’ and thank you, Peter, for your decades of dedication in keeping the flame of local journalism burning bright for the Whitsundays. We are proud to carry that baton forward, and look forward to doing so alongside you both for many years to come.

From one Editor to another — thank you for helping keep regional print media alive.

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Living on the picturesque Hayman Island hasn’t stopped Hang Nguyen from chasing her dream of working in early childhood education. The dedicated student is currently completing a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC30121) through TAFE Queensland, which she studies online to suit her unique island-based lifestyle.

“I do my course online because I am based on Hayman,” Hang explained.

Hang said that she likes the flexibility of doing the course online, but most she enjoys what the course covers.

The TAFE Queensland course covers a range of skills, including activity planning, multicultural awareness, teamwork, and behavioural strategies, all of which have left a lasting impression on Hang.

“My favourite thing in my course is seeing how the children grow up at that age, and how to teach them new things,” she said.

Hang also works at the local school on Hayman Island and travels to the mainland to complete her practical placement at a childcare service. The hands-on component, she says, is another favourite part of the course.

“I like being with the children, they have a lot of different ideas, you will never think about it but when they say it, it gives us a different angle to look at it.”

Her passion lies in caring for children from six months to six years old, and she finds the early years particularly rewarding. She likes how TAFE Queensland has structured the course and what they teach.

“I’ve learned a lot of different things, how you organise activities for the kids, how you look after them, for babies how you feed them, how you settle them down and when they are upset how to calm them down,” she added.

With over a year of study under her belt, Hang is looking forward to completing her qualification and hopes to continue working in the childcare industry, potentially at the centre where she is currently working.

“It’s a very nice place there and very supportive.”

Hang’s journey is a testament to the flexibility of online education and the power of passion, especially when combined with the peaceful surroundings of island life.

Hang’s journey highlights how the flexibility of online education and personal passion can thrive at TAFE Queensland.

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Locals are in for a treat with an upcoming Gin and Food Pairing Event that promises to celebrate regional flavours through a unique collaboration between a local venue and boutique 74 Islands Distillery

Set just a few weeks away, the event will feature six carefully matched dishes, created by chefs from both Club Whitsunday and 74 Islands Distillery, paired with four gins, two vodkas, and two cocktails crafted with 74 Islands spirits. The distillery, located just up the hill from Club Whitsunday, produces both dry and botanical gins, distilled using traditional and rainwater methods, as well as smooth locally made vodka.

“This is our first food and drink pairing event, and we really wanted to partner with someone local,” said Club Whitsunday General Manager Josh Prowse.

“Guests will enjoy food and drinks designed to complement each other, plus a cocktail finale featuring custom recipes from 74 Islands’ bar manager.”

Bookings are already rolling in, with strong early interest and Josh is looking forward to the event.

Tickets are priced at $120 offering a full evening of food, drinks, and a celebration of local produce. Josh said that nobody will leave the event hungry or thirsty and it’s a great opportunity to have a high quality afternoon while supporting two local businesses.

Bookings are essential and can be made via the QR code on the event flyer.

WHAT: Botanical Bites
WHERE: Club Whitsunday
WHEN: Saturday 14 June (3pm – 5pm)

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74 Island's Distillery will be partnering with Club Whitsunday for this event. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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With a passion for people, storytelling, and showcasing hidden gems, Cherene Poidevin from Driftwood Tours offers an adventure in the Whitsundays like no other.

Recently nominated for a Best of Queensland Experience, Cherene says Driftwood Tours benefits from her 30 plus years of experience and an official accreditation as a Savannah Guide and Eco Nature Guide.

Driftwood Tours offers small group tours with a personal touch, built on a genuine connection and a deep love of the region’s history, flora, fauna, and culture.

“I'm not just a bus driver who points things out, I take you on a journey,” said Cherene.

“All of my tours have got full commentary and great friendly banter. I always like to say to my guests that strangers are only friends you haven't met.”

From sunrise with kangaroos at Cape Hillsborough, to discovering Bowen, even waterfalls and bushwalk tours, Cherene covers all bases, and guests love how the tours are informative and immersive.

Her sunrise tour starts early, but the bus journey is complete with neck pillows and blankets, so guests can enjoy the first light in nature comfortably. Her full-day Bowen tour showcases incredible beaches, while the rainforest tours include interactive walks, and in the dry season, a stop at the local 50s-style diner is included.

Cherene credits her success to ongoing learning and a genuine love of sharing the Whitsundays.

“This is our backyard. People dream about this and we get to live it in 3D, how cool is that?” she said.

Most of her guests are people looking for a tour that offers more in-depth information, and with smaller numbers, the tours feel crowd-free and personal.

For Cherene and Driftwood Tours, it’s about pride in quality, connection, and creating unforgettable experiences. Book your adventure Today!

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Cherene Poidevin wants to show you the Whitsundays. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Tourism Whitsundays new brand campaign, Naturally Iconic, is now in full swing. Built around the pillars of our unique natural icons and regional diversity, the campaign positions The Whitsundays as a destination that offers much more than beautiful backdrops.

Created in collaboration with Simple (Adelaide) and dentsu Queensland, the campaign captures everything that makes The Whitsundays unforgettable - from reef to rainforest, island escapes to mainland adventures. It’s fresh, vibrant, and already gaining strong traction across key markets.
Rolling out across digital, social, out-of-home and broadcast channels, Naturally Iconic has already drawn national media attention, so we’ve been excited to see this campaign resonating so widely.

A huge thanks to our partners who’ve supported this journey - especially the 16 operators who joined the campaign’s buy-in opportunity. Their involvement has enabled extra media amplification through bespoke placements that showcase their unique experiences.

Naturally Iconic is a major step in our long-term strategy to grow visitation and deepen connections with The Whitsundays. We’ll be sharing more soon – but in the meantime, please see some of our favourite placements out there in the wild!

Contributed by Tourism Whitsundays

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