Missed Options Rate Renewal Can Be Costly

To be honest, when purchasing insurance, we often overlook some of the most costly factors, usually because we never really expect to “use it”.

The most frequent statement I hear is, “Oh I didn’t include that in my renewal”.

“That” could be any or all of these;

~ a hire vehicle

~ an unlimited kilometre option

~ a reduced excess

~ a windscreen replacement

~ a choice of repairer

At the time of purchase these items appear to be unnecessary, however often not enough information is derived before making the decision.

Let me explain – what if your vehicle is involved in an accident and it is not drivable?

Based on current wait times and availability of parts it could be months before the vehicle can be back on the road, with all safety features intact and operational.

Can you afford to have down time for an extended period? For a minimal cost upfront?

Canstar advises that there are 66 Vehicle insurance providers in Australia.

Each of these companies have a variety of policies, and numerous choice options.

Your decision to include or exclude these options can be costly.

My advice is to write a diary note a month prior to when your insurance is due.

Make note of the products and options available and consider what each means to you and your family or employees.  

If this is a work vehicle, consider options that include like-for-like hire so that you can continue your work uninterrupted.

Have your questions noted and ready to ask, sometimes we get flustered and forget to ask.

So, tick them off as you go, it is fine to tell the insurance representative that you are making an inquiry and you want them to take it slow if you are feeling rushed.

You do not have to make the decision in the first call.  Take the reference number for the call.  

Request an email address and you can respond in writing with your well-considered response!

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This week friends, family and the broader Airlie Beach community are remembering a spirited champion of the region, who tirelessly worked for the greater good, most notably in his over 40 years’ service to the Rotary Club and as one of the first Cruise Ship Ambassadors.

John Wilson Powell sadly passed away late last month, and almost a hundred people attended his funeral at the VMR in Cannonvale on Monday where his rich and fulfilling life was celebrated by all.

He was remembered as a remarkable husband to his wife Gill and an amazing father, grandfather, and friend.

Born in Melbourne in 1941 John lived half his life in Victoria, joining the bank straight out of school before finding his niche in selling curtains and soft furnishings. He married Jo when he was 23 and they had three children: Mandy, Simon, and Melissa.

John's ambitious spirit and deep interest in the local community were evident from an early age. He founded the Viewbank Progress Association, tirelessly working alongside the Local Government to ensure that essential infrastructure, such as kindergartens, maternal health centres, and schools, were established for the betterment of the area.

In 1974, he ran for and won a seat in the City of Heidelberg's Local Government, his tenure as a city councillor was marked by unwavering dedication to the betterment of Heidelberg, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of its residents.

In 1977, while still in his thirties, John ran for Mayor and was successful in his bid. He went on to spend many happy years wholeheartedly engaged in the responsibilities his role entailed, embracing every event and opportunity to connect with the community.

In 1985, John married his second wife Dot and together with Dot’s children, they joined the Victorian migration north and decided to create a new life in Airlie Beach.

Here, John purchased Airlie Soft Furnishings which he worked successfully until he retired.

He also owned The Men’s Den and Le Mignon CAFÉ as well as other businesses.

In 2000 John met his third wife Gill and as he used to say: “he saved the best for last”.

John knew she was the one after their first dance at the Bastille Ball at Panache and the couple were married in 2004, inseparable for the last 19 years.

Always engaged and vocal within the community John's impact in Airlie Beach extended far beyond his business endeavours.

He earned the affectionate nickname Mr Microphone, always eager to be at the forefront of making a difference.

He assumed prestigious roles such as President of the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce, Councillor for the Shire of Whitsunday, and Area Captain for the Australian Bureau of Statistics Census.

Additionally, he took on responsibilities as Conference Chairman and Coordinator of District 9550 for Rotary Conferences.

In recent years, John volunteered at Vinnies and whenever a cruise ship docked in town, John would don his blue and white shirt to be there to greet the passengers. He proudly became the first person to welcome and greet passengers from around the world.

One of the most memorable moments in John's life was witnessing his children's marriages: Mandy to Steve, Simon to Dorris, and Melissa to Simon.

From these unions, his beloved grandchildren Ally, Mikayla, Josh, Harry, and Charlotte were born.

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The Townsville 500 races through Townsville this weekend, and a couple of north Queenslanders are living the ultimate V8 Supercar experience thanks to Porters Mitre 10.

Mark “Frosty” Winterbottom’s supercar was on display at Porters Mitre 10 Mackay last week, with DeWalt challenging people of all ages to the pit-stop challenge.

The quickest to change a tyre on the day to instantly won double passes to the Townsville 500, and there were plenty of other prizes, giveaways, demonstrations, fun and games on the day.

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Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

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For the fourth year, the Whitsunday Police force have hosted their Coffee with a Cop at the Whitsunday Plaza, on Wednesday July 5.

With a smaller scale event compared to last years, members of the community were offered complimentary coffee and could have a chat with a local cop, asking all their pressing questions to the boys in blue.

“We use this time to remind the community that we are people too, we’re not scary,” explained Sergeant Billy Li.

“We’re here to help the community, and we want to be present as much as we can.”

Police officers on site included Sargent Billy Li and Sergeant Nathan Blaine and various general duties officers who were eager to answer any and all questions and engage with the community.

The officers were grilled on the recent crime spree, general policing issues, and shift routines, as well as thanked for their service.

Whitsunday PCYC also made an appearance, with Braking the Cycle Coordinator Declan Coull and Get Set For Work Coordinator Scott Lynch ready to share their programs to Whitsunday youth.

In particular, the Get Set For Work program is a new initiative for the PCYC, aiding youth aged between 15 and 19 to gain qualifications, skills and support to find employment, and it is set to begin on Monday, July 10.

Plans for the 2024 iteration of Coffee With A Cop are already underway.

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The boys in blue set up shop in Whitsunday Plaza, to engage with local community. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge

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One of my most intimidating travel experiences was when I was suddenly swarmed by a gang of young street thieves as I was about to catch a train with my wife in an underground station in central Mexico City.

We were catching the train to the suburbs to have a look at the museum-style house the artist Frida Khalo had shared with her equally famous husband Diego Rivera, a trip that also gave us the opportunity to visit the house around the corner where Russian revolutionary Leon Trotsky was stabbed to death with an ice pick while seated at his desk.

Anyway, we were pretty much the only people on the platform as we waited for the train to arrive … that is until we felt the gush of wind and the sound of the train approaching through the tunnel.

Suddenly about 20 young people appeared next to us and, as the carriage doors opened and we entered the train, they surrounded us.

As we stepped into the carriage and the door closed, it became clear they were a gang and, judging by the hands that were palming all over my body, they wanted to rob us.

My wife didn’t have anything important on her as all our money and passports etc were in the “bum bag” that I had strapped around my waist. I don’t know if my grip can accurately be described as “vice-like” but the grip I had on that bum bag that day is as close as I am ever going to get.

I knew we only had to last until the next stop so I held on tight for a few minutes until we got there and, when we did and the doors opened, there was a sudden and complete exodus by the gang. They had a go at robbing me but, once they realised it wasn’t going to be easy, they gave up and moved on to the next target.

Some real estate buyers can be like that. Don’t get me wrong, not all of them. Most buyers are great and, although everyone would love to pick up a bargain, most are happy to pay a fair price for a property they see value in.

But there are a few who think they are going to steal a house from a stupid agent and a desperate seller.

One of the most important things that I can do as an agent is to create competition. The write-up, flyer drops,  social media strategy, phone calls to potential buyers, work with other Gardian agents who will also have buyers … in short, the marketing and strategic approach to selling your property creates the buyer interest you need.

If there is strong buyer interest in a property, those buyers who want to sneak in and pick up a bargain will realise they have picked the wrong house, the wrong agent.

Like the train station thieves of Mexico City, those buyers move on and look for their next target. It won’t be one of my properties.

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It started with an idea.

An art studio trail that would connect, develop and showcase artists from across the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday region – enriching our arts scene, creating economic opportunities and promoting our region as a melting pot of creative talent and cultural tourism.

It’s never been done before, not on this scale.

The excitement is tangible. Fi Flohr, Earth Designs by Fi said she was ready for this opportunity.

“I’ve been wanting to join a local network of artists for collaboration and professional development,” she said.

Pioneer Potters Mackay Inc. are repainting and refurbishing their studio for the first time in 30 years in preparation for the Art Studio Trail!

Visionary artist Margaret Burgess led the development of this idea from concept to reality and this week the Mackay Art Studio Trail was officially launched at Gallery 31 at the CQUni Mackay City Campus.

The Mackay Art Studio Trail would not have been possible without the trust and buy-in from over 150 regional artists and the dedication of time and expertise volunteered by Artists Connect Inc., the not-for-profit committee that was formed to guide the project.

President of Artists Connect Inc., Glenda Hobdell said our region had such a rich community of talented artists and those artists needed to connect to continue to grow.

“We need to talk, support and mentor each other and share what we do with our community and visitors. Artist Connect Inc. is making all of these things happen,” she said.

The initiative is a successful recipient of the Regional Arts Development Fund.

Councillor May and I are RADF committee members and were assigned as project mentors. Council’s support has been exceptional, with officers assisting the members to navigate the sometimes-complex development and licence applications and approvals.

It is quite extraordinary for a community-led initiative to deliver both community and economic development outcomes. Cultures big and small unite through the arts to build better communities, to provide unique economic and tourism opportunities, and strengthen the bonds between people and place.

The Mackay Art Studio Trail contributes to making our region a richer place to live, work and play.

Find out more at the Mackay Art Studio Trail website - http://artistsconnectinc.au

Cr Michelle Green

Mackay Regional Council

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Pretty cool hey!

If you had to base it on how great it is, then the last two weeks would be testament to why we should pinch ourselves every day we get out of bed.

Last week we had the pleasure of welcoming back to Mackay two of our stars from the Mackay Fire Special Olympics champions, Chloe and TJ. They had both been competing in Berlin with the Australian Basketball sides in the Special Olympics Games and to say we were proud of their achievements is an understatement.

Both Chloe and TJ picked up bronze medals in Berlin and to see them return at the Mackay Airport last week with their medals and massive smiles, it just makes everything so much better. Congratulations to both on the massive wins and sportsmanship over there.

Also, two days ago we came together as a community to help fundraise for the annual 4MK Kilometre of Coins. This year it was all for Jeans for Genes Day at the Bluewater Quay. The idea was simple. Lay coins, side by side on the Forgan Bridge footpath, and hope we reach a kilometre in length. Did we get there? Was it a huge undertaking? Did many people come down and join the burpee challenge to raise even more money? So many yeses there to be answered, but you know what, the kids around Mackay will be smiling after the effort from 48 hours ago.

We love helping any local activity that in turn will help our neighbours, mates, and work friends. It’s that easy.

Whether it’s helping a mate walk up the Blacks Beach stairs on a Saturday morning, to selling raffle tickets for the Eastern Swans AFL teams during the week. It all adds up.

You can do your bit too. Let us know what fundraisers you are part of, drop me a line at 4MK and I’ll tell our beautiful community all about it. It really is that easy to do.

Before I go, come and join me Sunday at Bunnings as I cook up a storm on the BBQ for my Arsenals Hockey Club fundraiser. I’m sure I and the whole club will have your snags sorted.

Plus, a beautiful happy 1st birthday to little Callie who I’m sure will be spoilt by Mum and Dad this weekend. The smiles you put on a certain person’s face, who’s name sounds like Paul Rutland, is just magical. The world is your oyster. Don’t forget that. Ever.

You can join Rob Kidd from 5am weekday mornings on 4MK 1026 AM in Mackay and Proserpine, 91.5FM in Airlie Beach or just ask your smart speaker to play 4MK on iHeartRadio!

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A small community like Bowen was perfectly suited for senior CT radiographer Jaegeun Shin, who jumped at the opportunity to relocate to the town last September.

Better known as Jack, he is making a massive impact to patients and their medical care, helping position Bowen Hospital in the top 25 per cent of low radiation dose facilities in all of Australia.

He has also been instrumental with the hospital CT and clinical team taking the world first project of combining radiation dose reduction and the change of cannula size.

“We have a lot of elderly patients in Bowen,” Jack said.

“For a few reasons their skin is very fragile, and it can be difficult to cannulate, specially in cancer and chemotherapy patients.

“We found we can put a smaller cannula in, use less contrast dye at a slower flow rate and still get high quality images with much less discomfort for our patients.”

Since this change in procedure, the radiographer said that patients were no longer experiencing side effects such as nausea, vomiting, skin rashes and swelling.

“We had an 86-year-old oncology patient who said to us ‘this is the best experience I’ve had in CT’,” explained Jack.

“She has had a lot of scans done previously, so that was actually a great compliment for the hospital.

“Since starting this protocol, using a smaller cannula with a slower flow rate and less contrast dye, we’ve never had these symptoms since.”

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After gaining invaluable skills in the big city, Jack Shin moved to Bowen to aid patients. Photo supplied

Supporting women-owned businesses has become crucial in fostering economic empowerment and narrowing the gender gap. By consciously directing purchasing power and resources toward these enterprises, we can create a more equitable and prosperous society. Here are some top tips for supporting women-owned businesses and driving positive change:

Seek Out Women-Owned Businesses: Start by actively seeking out women-owned businesses in your community. Attend local markets, explore online directories, or join social media groups dedicated to promoting such ventures. By consciously choosing to support women entrepreneurs, you can contribute to breaking down barriers and creating a more level playing field.

Share The Word: Social media platforms provide powerful tools to amplify the voices of women-owned businesses. Like, comment, and share posts to help increase their reach and visibility. By recommending these enterprises to your friends, family, and colleagues, you can play an essential role in expanding their customer base.

Shop With Intention: When making purchasing decisions, prioritize women-owned businesses. Whether it's clothing, beauty products, or services, actively choose to support enterprises run by women. Additionally, consider opting for products that advocate fair trade, ethical sourcing, and sustainable practices, as many women-owned businesses embrace these principles.

Collaborate and Network: Women entrepreneurs often face unique challenges, including limited access to resources and mentorship. Encourage collaboration by forming partnerships or seeking out mentorship programs that connect experienced professionals with aspiring women business owners. By sharing knowledge, expertise, and networks, we can foster a supportive ecosystem that nurtures their growth and success.

Advocate for Equal Opportunities: Engage in conversations about gender equality in business and advocate for policies that promote equal opportunities. By raising awareness and lobbying for change, we can create an environment that encourages and supports women's entrepreneurship.

By implementing these tips, we can collectively uplift women-owned businesses, driving economic growth and fostering a more inclusive society. When women succeed in business, entire communities benefit from the innovation, job creation, and diverse perspectives they bring. Let's harness the power of our choices to create a future where women-owned businesses thrive, empowering women and building a more prosperous world for all.

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Welcome to FY 2024. It’s full steam ahead in the Whitsundays with visitors flocking to the region over school holiday. And the weather has generally cooperated with a spectacular Whitsunday winter!

Full steam ahead as Chamber advocacy over the last few weeks includes preparing members for new industrial relations changes that have come into effect, skilled workforce shortages and visa pathways, the regions housing crisis, and local precinct infrastructure -- particularly trying to mitigate negative publicity on Airlie Beach's main street.

Our support for the establishment of a Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA) continues and we are delighted to have Marny Bowman from the Department of Home Affairs appearing at our next event to provide information for employers.

Additionally, coinciding with the Chamber's involvement in a couple of consultations on the region's housing crisis, we have released our policy paper which sets out a number of recommendations that urge all levels of government to take prompt action to foster a thriving business environment while addressing the critical housing needs of the community

A key purpose of the Chamber is to advocate on critical issues on behalf of our members and the Whitsunday business community more broadly. Our advocacy work ensures we deal, negotiate, and participate in any forum that gets our message across on behalf of our members. Please visit the Advocacy page on the Chamber's website for updates on our advocacy priorities.

In May we launched our Vision for the Whitsundays research and advocacy project. Later this month, we will be releasing news of how you can have your say on what the future could look like and what we need to do now to future proof tomorrow. You will be able to participate by either making a formal submission to the project, completing a short online survey, or registering to attend an interactive roundtable discussion. Make sure you are registered via our website to receive Chamber news and updates.

Soon we will be revealing the Chamber's new 5-year strategy, an ambitious plan to drive sustainable business growth and connectivity throughout the Whitsunday region. Please join us at our Thursday 13 July event in Proserpine to hear of these plans, initiatives, and the launch of our new membership offerings that aim to support local business growth and success. Our July event is open to all and you can register today on our website or by contacting the Chamber team on admin@whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au

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Neoh Phoenix Photography

Step into the vibrant world of Neoh Phoenix Photography, where Mackay-based photographer Maree Rowles weaves her magic through the lens. With a deep love for freezing cherished memories, Maree's journey into photography began as a mother capturing her own family's milestones. Now, she invites you to join her on an unforgettable photographic adventure.

"I needed photography in my life to know that this was my record of my children growing up," Maree reflects. As a busy mum of four, Maree understands the fleeting nature of these precious moments and the desire to preserve them. With her camera always at the ready, she ensures that no memory goes uncelebrated.

With a reputation for capturing plenty of memories for family and friends during special occasions, Maree’s first camera was a gift from her husband, Nathan, who understood her desire to preserve these memorable moments.

The name Neoh Phoenix Photography itself holds a heartfelt significance as it is inspired by her youngest son, Neoh. Combining the meaning of "New Precious Gift" with the symbolism of the phoenix rising from the ashes, the name represents the profound joy and new beginnings that come with every captured moment.

While Maree offers a range of photography genres, her glamour shoot is becoming a popular booking option. Embracing vibrant colours and eye-catching compositions, she adds a touch of pizzazz to every frame. "Glam is something that makes a lot of people happy," she explains. "To add a tad of colour here and there can do so much!"

Maree's glamour photography is all about making you feel like a Hollywood icon by showcasing your beauty and confidence. Clients can choose from studio or on-location backdrops and the pampering experience includes refreshments and nibbles as well as full hair and makeup styling.

When it comes to maternity shoots, Maree captures the raw emotion and anticipation surrounding the arrival of a new family member. Whether it's a first-time parent or a growing family welcoming a sibling, she snaps those precious moments before the baby's arrival.

What sets Maree apart is not just her technical skills, but her commitment to her craft and client satisfaction. With nearly a decade of experience and an extensive portfolio, she blends dedication, precision, and charisma into every session.

Step into the world of vibrant colours, heartfelt moments, and unforgettable memories. Get ready to say "cheese" and let Maree work her magic!

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Maree Rowles is the owner of Neoh Phoenix Photography

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Council adopted their 2023-24 Budget last Friday and our priority as Councillors was to maintain essential services with minimal rate rises for our residents.

Against the backdrop of these rising costs and inflation sitting above six per cent, we have been able to keep the rate rise to a minimum, with an average increase in general rates for residential owner occupiers of two per cent.

Council will also continue to provide one of the most generous pensioner rates concessions in Queensland.

Ratepayers experiencing financial hardship may seek assistance under Council’s Rate Relief due to Hardship Policy.

Highlights of Council’s 2023/24 capital works program include commencing construction on a new $3.5 million waste cell at Kelsey Creek, $2.4 million towards upgrading infrastructure at our regional airports including our award-winning Whitsunday Coast Airport, $11.4 million on stormwater drainage, roads and footpath infrastructure which includes, Stage 2 of the Bicentennial Walkway and gravel road re-sheeting on our unsealed network.

Council plays a key role in assisting local community and sporting groups across the region and at last week’s Ordinary Council meeting in Bowen, financial support was approved for a range of community events and Sport & Recreation Grants were approved for seven local sporting clubs.

We approved $1,500 to the Collinsville Lions Club to host a weekly Community BBQ for the third year in a row to welcome travellers at the Collinsville RV Park during the peak tourism season.

Sponsorship of $2,500 was approved to assist the Springlands Campdraft Association with their annual campdraft event on July 21-23.

The popular Collinsville Bacon Busters was awarded sponsorship of $2,500 to assist the Collinsville State High School P&C with their annual event on Saturday 19 August 2023.

Sport & Recreation Club Grants were approved for the following recipients: Cannonvale Kyokushin Karate Club Inc. $5,500; Proserpine Rugby League Football Club Inc. $3,000; Bowen Football Association $3,000; Proserpine Bowls Club Inc. $1,500; Collinsville Golf Club Inc. $1,500; Whitsunday Regional Endurance Riders Association Inc. $1,000.

Funding of $20,000 under Council’s Sport & Recreation Facility Management Grant was awarded to Proserpine Junior Sporting Complex Association.

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Dear phenomenal women in business,

Today, we embark on a heartfelt journey into the realm of personal branding, where authenticity reigns supreme. Picture this: a warm cup of tea, a cozy blanket, and a candid conversation about unveiling your true self to the world. So, grab a seat and let's dive into the depths of vulnerability.

In a world that often expects us to put on a brave face, it can be daunting to reveal our authentic selves. But here's a little secret: your vulnerability can be your superpower. It's what sets you apart, allowing others to connect with you on a profound level. Embrace your fears, quirks, and imperfections, for they are the very essence of your personal brand.

When it comes to social media, it's all about striking a delicate balance between professionalism and genuine expression. Platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram provide us with a digital canvas to paint our stories. Share your triumphs, your failures, and the lessons you've learned along the way. Allow your audience to witness your journey, inspiring them to embrace their own authenticity.

LinkedIn, the virtual tapestry of professionals, offers a space to showcase your expertise and establish meaningful connections. Share industry insights, write thought-provoking articles, and engage in conversations that ignite passion within you. Let your voice resonate, echoing through the digital corridors and captivating the hearts of your professional network.

Facebook Groups, ah, what a captivating corner of the digital world they are! These virtual spaces are teeming with emotions, where like-minded souls gather to share their passions, seek understanding, and form connections that transcend the boundaries of time and distance. Craft compelling posts that reflect your unique perspective, share valuable resources, and engage with your tribe.

Instagram, the captivating visual wonderland, allows you to showcase the vibrant tapestry of your life. Paint a picture that transcends the boardroom, revealing the passions and interests that shape you as a multifaceted individual. Whether it's travel, fashion, or culinary delights, let your authentic self shine through captivating visuals and captivating captions.

But amidst the digital frenzy, never lose sight of your core values and purpose. Personal branding isn't about creating a polished façade; it's about embracing the beauty of your true self and sharing it with the world. Your authenticity is magnetic, drawing in a tribe of like-minded individuals who resonate with your story and vision.

So, dear women in business, let vulnerability be your guiding light. Unleash the power of your authentic personal brand, and watch as it weaves connections, empowers others, and paves the way for a more inclusive and compassionate professional world.

With heartfelt sincerity,

Shirlz x

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From the end of July 2023, aviation fuel/AVGAS will be available at the Bowen Aerodrome!

This welcome addition to the aerodrome will allow general aviators, aeroclub members and aircraft providing ag spraying to conveniently refuel on-site.

Whitsunday Regional Council owns and manages Whitsunday Coast Airport, as well as three smaller aerodromes (Bowen, Collinsville, and Mount Coolon). This initiative to offer aviation fuel at the Bowen Aerodrome marks the start of an increased commercial focus on our smaller regional airports, adding value to these assets whilst also developing regional access and providing extra value to our community.

Check out the Whitsunday Coast Airport Facebook page and Instagram for all the latest news on our airports and aerodromes.

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The Whitsundays region has seen unprecedented visitor growth, when compared with 2019 statistics.

Results gathered from the National Visitor Survey (NVS) for the year ending March 2023 showed massive growth and expenditure of visitors to the area.

Most impressive, the area has seen an increase of 41.4 per cent increase over three years, from 2019, and a visitor expenditure of $1.6 billion from 2022 till March this year.

According to the NVS, 59.6 per cent were interstate visitors, with 46 per cent being from New South Wales.

Big numbers brings big spending, with each visitor spending an average of $1,842 each while here, up 24 per cent, and staying on average for five and a half nights, compared to the previous four and a half nights from the year before.

This means people are staying in the region longer and spending more money on services, attractions, and activities.

Tourism Whitsundays CEO Rick Hamilton is thrilled with the results.

"These remarkable records in visitor expenditure and interstate visitation underscore The Whitsundays' status as an unmatched holiday destination,” he said.

“Further to the records, for the first time since 2020, we have international visitor numbers.

“The region has welcomed 36,000 visitors, mostly from the UK and Europe, in the first quarter of 2023.

“These numbers show us that the international demand for The Whitsundays is strong, and we expect that demand to continue to grow in coming months.”

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2022-23 has seen unprecedented growth in visitors to the area. Photo supplied