For close to 50 years, Claire Mitchell-Must has dedicated her life to saving the lives of others, and she has recently hung up her nursing uniform and welcomed retirement.

“It’s amazing too, because my mum was a nurse, for 50 years, and so are my two sisters, so between all of us, we have over 120 years of nursing,” Claire explained.

Throughout childhood, Claire wanted to be a ballerina, however she happened into the role as an assistant nurse when she was 17 years old.

During that time, Claire has witnessed massive changes in the industry, including the introduction of gloves for preventative measures, rather than just when in theatre, or even when Claire used to work alongside ambulances.

“There was a time when the ambulance driver was just the driver, so I had a bag packed and would jump into the ambo and head out to regions, on farms and on beaches, to help in all sorts of emergencies,” Claire said.

“You would get the call out, grab your bag, and off you went.”

Having been extensively theatre and emergency department trained, Claire was witness to just about any and every sort of accident and emergency.

“My passion was in theatre and ED; they were just areas I really loved. When the theatre closed in Bowen, I moved into ED more consistently.”

Looking back over the time, “It has been wonderful, I have not regretted a minute, and if I could go back to do it again, I would not change a thing.”

Skipping a generation, Claire’s grandson, who is currently completing his senior exams, is looking to study Medicine at university.

“What made the job was when patients would turn to you and say ‘thank you for being there’, even when you feel you didn’t do a thing, that’s what made you feel good.”

‍

Claire Mitchell-Must at her Retirement Party.

Claire on the job

Taking on COVID

Claire when she was a young nurse

Claire’s mum, Eileen Knight. Photos supplied

Bowen RSL has recently discovered a World War One veteran being honoured without his headstone, in an unmarked grave.

Major Stuart Tooth, service number 352, served in the Boer War and World War One, and passed away on June 8, 1968.

He served in the 6th Light Horse Regiment and was awarded the Distinguished Service Order and was mentioned in Dispatches for his outstanding bravery.

He was laid to rest in Bowen Cemetery in an unmarked grave, which was drawn to the attention of the Bowen RSL by a visitor, Gary Parsons.

Mr Parson was researching a history of Australians in World War One when he discovered Major Tooth.

With funding secured by RSL Queensland and the work of Whitsunday Monuments, a suitable headstone has been placed to recognise the life and service of Mayor Tooth.

A short dedication service has been planned in November to formally recognise his service.

WHAT: Honouring Fallen Veteran

WHERE: Bowen Cemetery

WHEN: Friday November 10, at 10am

‍

Mayor Stuart Tooth’s new headstone in Bowen Cemetery. Photo supplied

Bowen’s own Vennesa Locke has been announced a finalist for her Contribution to Australian Music, by the Australasian Performing Rights Association and Australasian Mechanical Copywrite Owners Society (APRA AMCOS).

Vennesa’s show, broadcast on 95.1 GEMFM, is “The Alternative Goodness Session”, and sees Vennesa promote awesome Australian and local independent, original music.

“I like to support local emerging artists and live music events,” Vennesa explained.

“My show is a discovery music show.”

Having been an avid listener of GemFM for years, and regularly ringing the channel to make song requests, the station approached Vennesa and asked if she was interested in her own show.

“We talked, and because of my work, I got an evening show,” she explained.

“I went in for training and never looked back, and now it’s been two and a half years.”

For the Awards, she was approached by the Community Broadcasting Association of Australia (CBBA) to submit an entry.

“The process was extensive, but it’s exciting to be announced a finalist, said Vannesa.

“And even if I don’t win, it will be exciting to be a part of the conference, to network with other broadcasters, and to be a part of it all.”

Vennesa is only one of six to be a finalist for award.

“And to be from small Bowen? Amazing.”

Station Manager Brian Winterburn was thrilled with Vennesa’s nomination.  

“Congratulations Vennesa, from humble beginnings to be listed in the seven finalists Australia wide,” he said.

“This is no small feat. On behalf of all our members, I would wish you all the best fortune in the forthcoming determination. What a great achievement.”

‍

Get ready this disaster season, with one of the best and most knowledgeable teams at Bowen Small Motors and Cycles.

“We have everything a household would need in an emergency,” explained Scott Raisbeck, owner and operator of Bowen Small Motors and Cycles.

“From generators, chainsaws and pumps, our team are able to make sure you and your family are ready.

“For generators, while Honda is the preferred brand which we stock, we also have a great range of other generators, that sort all needs.”

Following Scott’s recommendation, every household in the region should have a generator, be it a small generator, to power fridges, fans, and lights, or large capacity systems that can run absolutely anything, from stoves, lights, multiple fridges, and air conditioners. And don’t forget about charging phones and communication devices.

“Even just to run the bare essentials, every home should have a generator.

“If a household has medical needs, like CPAP machine, then having a generator is a must. Not even just for cyclones, but when we have power outages, you need to be able to run those invaluable devices,” Scott explained.

Bowen Small Motors and Cycles also stocks a wide variety of chainsaws, which come in handy in the post cyclone clean-up.

“While not essential for every home, having a chainsaw is handy,” said Scott.

And prior to disaster season, Scott recommends getting your home ready.

“Tidy up your yards, clean your gutters, and be ready to quickly move items that can be blown away in a cyclone,” Scott said.

Ready for disaster season, Bowen Small Motors and Cycles has great deals, so stock up now and be ready.

‍

Ensure the best for your family this disaster season, with Bowen Small Motors and Cycles. Photo Shutterstock

‍

Bowen Gumlu Growers Association welcomed growers and industry professionals and stakeholders to Bowen last week, to engage with up-and-coming autonomous technology.

Showcased on Vee Jay’s Kalfresh, the field day displayed ‘Robotti’, a robotic farming platform that is improving farming practices on the vegetable farm.

Robotti is a state-of-the-art device, that is revolutionising farming techniques using top-notch equipment and technology.

With capabilities that include automatic data collection, extensive decision making and management systems, Robotti’s autonomous operation is easing the burden on farmers for cropping and farm management.

Vee Jay, who has been using the device on his farm, spoke on the true value of the technology, utilising the autonomous vehicle throughout winter, and divulging information on costs, benefits, challenges, and future opportunities for the device.

Ry Collins, Chief Executive Officer the Bowen Gumlu Growers Association, said he is proud to have played a role in this project, continuing our advocacy toward the adoption of advanced agricultural technology.

“This technology holds great promise in enhancing productivity and sustainability within the industry,” he said.

“We eagerly anticipate future collaborations that will continue to shape the future of farming in Australia.”

A collaboration between government, industry and business, the project was funded through the Queensland Government Queensland Reef Water Quality Program and Hort Innovation.

‍

Autonomous farming technology Robotti is changing the game for famers. Photo supplied

Experience joy and magic in Pilcher's Christmas Alley, snap memories at their Christmas Photobooth, win big in their Three Weeks of Christmas Treats Giveaway, and discover the perfect gifts for everyone on your List!

As the holiday season approaches, there's no better place to find the perfect gifts and immerse yourself in the festive spirit than Pilcher's Mitre 10. This year, Pilcher's is turning into a Christmas wonderland with the launch of Pilcher's Christmas Alley, with an enchanting photobooth for capturing memories, 3 Weeks of Christmas Treats Giveaway, and an array of gift ideas for mum, dad, and kids that will make your holiday shopping a breeze.

Pilcher's Christmas Alley: A Magical Journey

Step into Pilcher's Christmas Alley, and you'll instantly be transported into a sparkling wonderland. The store is adorned with sparkling lights, beautifully decorated trees, and a plethora of holiday-traditions that will fill your heart with warmth and joy.

Christmas Photobooth: Create Cherished Memories

Capture the magic of the season at Pilchers Christmas Photobooth! Located at the heart of Pilcher's, this photobooth is designed to make your holiday memories last a lifetime. Whether you're snapping photos with loved ones or taking a solo shot in Santa's Sleigh, our Christmas Photobooth is the perfect spot to create cherished memories.

3 Weeks of Christmas Treats Giveaway: Win Big!

'Tis the season of giving, and Pilcher's is spreading the holiday cheer with their 3 Weeks of Christmas Treats Giveaway. Starting from December 1st and running through December 21st, every instore purchase gives you a chance to win fabulous prizes. Don't miss out on your chance to win big at Pilcher's this holiday season!

Gift Ideas for Mum, Dad, and Kids: Find the Perfect Present

Finding the perfect gifts for your loved ones has never been easier. Pilcher's has curated a wide range of gift ideas for mum, dad, and kids. Whether you're looking for a power tool for dad, home or garden treats for mum, or games and outdoor play for the little ones, they have you covered. Pilchers friendly and knowledgeable staff is here to assist you in selecting the ideal presents that will bring smiles and joy to your family and friends.

So, why not make Pilcher's Mitre 10 your go-to destination for all things Christmas this year? Head on down to Pilcher's and experience the magic of the season at Pilcher's Christmas Alley, capture memories at our Christmas Photobooth, enter the 3 Weeks of Christmas Treats Giveaway, and find the perfect gifts for mum, dad, and kids. Make this holiday season one to remember with Pilcher's Mitre 10, 56 Powell Street, Bowen – Open 7 Days!

‍

Welcoming the excited traveller who are stepping off the cruise ships is none other than the capable team of Whitsundays Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors.  

Taking out Silver in the Outstanding Contribution by a Volunteer or Volunteer Group category of the 2023 Whitsunday Tourism Awards, the Ambassadors could not be more excited.

“Winning Silver at The Whitsundays Tourism Awards for the Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors was such a fantastic achievement and a huge credit to the volunteers!” said Dea Huvonen, Visitor Service Manager of Tourism Whitsundays.

“We are very happy that the cruise ambassadors have been recognised for their passion and long-term dedication to the tourism in the Whitsundays.”

With 38 volunteers, the Ambassadors program strives to make sure cruise ship visitors have the best time in Airlie Beach.

“The Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors offer immense direct and indirect value and benefit to the local tourism industry,” Dea explained.

“Their role extends to include warmly greeting passengers, providing collateral such as maps and brochures, answering various questions and providing advice on where to eat, shop and places to visit.

“Over the years, their premium customer service experience has encouraged hundreds, if not thousands, of cruise passengers to return to The Whitsundays for a longer holiday. They truly are ambassadors for the whole Whitsundays.”

Established in 2004, the volunteers have greeted over 570 cruise ships and have welcomed over 800,000 cruise passengers into Airlie Beach.

“This is a remarkable achievement by a volunteer run group.”

The Cruise Ship Ambassadors have welcomed over 570 cruise ships to Airlie Beach. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

‍

Sequins, sass, and shiny shoes were the calling cards of success at the Hollywood-themed Whitsunday Tourism Awards held at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre last Friday evening.

Over 300 tourism operators and affiliated business filled the lawns for a large-scale cocktail party, where guests could mix and mingle, and be transformed to the Hollywood of yesteryear at the stunningly decorated venue.

After canapes and cocktails, everyone was beckoned into the air-conditioned auditorium for the formal awards ceremony which celebrated excellence, and paid homage to the extraordinary contributions that the tourism sector makes to The Whitsundays region.

Afterwards, the band kicked-off with some classic tunes and the dancefloor soon filled with revellers enjoying a vibrant atmosphere of camaraderie and passion for an evening to celebrated the hard work if a dedicated industry.

Rick Hamilton, the CEO of Tourism Whitsundays, described the Whitsundays Tourism Awards as the region's most anticipated event.

“We are the most tourism-reliant region in Queensland, with 1 in 3 jobs dependant on tourism,” he explained.

“The evening’s event is a tribute to the region’s reliance on tourism, with everyone gathered to applaud their own achievements, their competitors' feats, and, most importantly, the collective triumphs of the tourism industry."

‍

In a mammoth night of big wins and excited thrills, the team behind Bowen Tourism and Business were able to leave the night with three awards and a special finalist mention.

“It was absolutely spectacular, and we were thrilled to share the feelings with our team who were able to join in the excitement on the night,” said Leanne Abernethy, Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business.

“It was particularly special to have our fantastic volunteers acknowledged, that was a big highlight of the evening. We were very proud to come home with two gold, one silver, and be a finalist as well.”

Collecting three awards and one finalist position, almost all aspects of the business were recognised, with The Big Mango winning Silver for Tourist Attraction, Gold for the category of Visitor Information Services, Gold for Outstanding Contribution by a Volunteer or Volunteer Group, and being highlighted a finalist for Tourism Marketing and Campaigns, for the Big Mango 21st birthday takeover in June.

“It is a real team effort, with us, from volunteers and the business team. I feel very privileged to work with such a wonderful team and a supportive community,” said Leanne.

“Together we have been able to grow the business by implementing changes. In the past financial year, we have had a record number of visitors come through our Visitor Information Centre, and it was an exciting year for volunteers and the business with the 21st birthday of the Big Mango, which reached over four million people as part of our big marketing campaign.

“We always strive to ensure an excellent visitor experience for everyone coming through Bowen and the greater Whitsunday region.”

Chair of Bowen Tourism and Business, Jenn Honnery, was proud of the achievements of Bowen Tourism and Business.

“We felt very proud to receive a number of awards at the Whitsundays Tourism Awards. Taking gold in both Outstanding Contribution by a Volunteer Group and Visitor Information Services recognises the tireless contribution of our volunteers and staff,” she said.

“The passion they show for Bowen cannot be underestimated and their excellence in customer service and dedication to the organisation is to be congratulated.

“We have 18 volunteers at the Big Mango Information Centre and Front Beach Info Booth, each one bringing a lifetime of unique skills to support our services, we really couldn’t run without them! Our team of staff are the backbone of Bowen Tourism and Business, outperforming KPIs, increasing our services and welcoming a record number of visitors year on year.

“I’d like to personally congratulate every member of our team, both volunteer and staff, for this amazing achievement,” she said.

‍

Kicking goals across all areas of industry, the Whitsunday Regional Council are celebrating their own this week with two Council-owned facilities and one senior staff member bringing home accolades at last Friday’s Tourism Awards.

For the third year in a row, Whitsunday Coast Airport took out the top gong in the Tourism, Retail, Hire and Services category, closely followed by a second Council-owned facility, Shute Harbour Marine Terminal which was awarded silver in the same category.

Completing the triple, was Whitsunday Regional Council’s Commercial Business Director, Craig Turner, who was awarded the Bob Porter Award for Outstanding Contribution by an Individual, for his 28-year service to tourism.

Mr Turner said he was both “very humbled and extremely grateful” to receive such a prestigious award.

“I was completely surprised and blown away!” he said.

“I’ve been here for over 28 years and worked very hard – and this award is not for me, I do it all for the area, the people and the industry.

“I am always thinking, what can I do today to improve the destination for tomorrow.”

Mr Turner said he was also thrilled to see two of the facilities he oversees receive an award at Friday’s gala event.

“This year with the Airport we really focused on the business’ performance in the submission,” he explained.

“We have seen 30 per cent increases across the board – flights, gross profit, and nett profit.

“We have also had the busiest year in our 72-year history.”

In the 2022/23 financial year Whitsunday Coast Airport saw a record-breaking 477,000 passengers move through the airport and this financial year, it is forecast to smash the previous record, with 598,000 passengers expected to pass through.

“It’s fantastic to see how what we do on an annual basis gets recognition, it really validates what the team is doing every day at the airport,” said Mr Turner.

“I also think the whole awards process is extremely valuable – it’s a good opportunity to work on the business rather than in it – look at our successes and challenges, do a business health check.”

Mr Turner said that bringing home a silver award in the same category for Shute Harbour Marine Terminal was also validation for the entire team’s hard work.

“Shaun and the team do an amazing job, the guys work extremely hard, and you can see that through the numbers,” he explained.

“The terminal is now full, in fact we are over-subscribed which is a fantastic achievement, especially considering we have only been open for two years this November.”

Shining across all aspects of the industry, it is clear that transport services in the region are thriving under the safe guidance of an award-winning industry veteran who has a clear plan for the future.

“We’ll be announcing more flights again soon and are looking forward to another prosperous year ahead for the region,” said Mr Turner.

“Congratulations to all the other award winners on the night and a huge thanks to my incredible team.”

‍

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

‍

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.

‍

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

‍

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.”

‍

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

‍

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.

‍

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

‍

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.

‍

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

‍