Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
The photo of the week winner is Elise Dunckis for the theme ‘Off the Beaten Track’. Elise’s photo is of a night under the stars which, was taken in Morgan, South Australia. Next week’s theme is ‘Vintage’. Budding Photographers can enter by joining the Whitsunday’s Amateur Photographers group on Facebook. Contributed by Whitsunday Amateur Photographers
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Residents of the Greater Whitsunday Region are no stranger to the burden of box jellyfish. They have no brain; they pose a deadly threat and have been nearly impossible to detect in the water – at least until now. Growing up in Bowen, Dr Scott Morrissey’s passion for marine life was fostered by the town’s beautiful beaches and the opportunities they provided for underwater exploration. “I spent as much time as I possibly could underwater. I wanted to learn as much as I could about what I was seeing,” Scott said. With a robust education courtesy of Bowen State High School, Scott was able to foster his passion for marine life. Hig “Chemistry is okay but it’s like cooking to me. Physics was too much math. Biology was what I really enjoyed. It’s about building an understanding of how everything works together and why things are happening in the environment. It’s great learning biology because you can go outside and apply what you’ve learnt immediately. It definitely resonated with me.” Scott’s classic North Queensland grievances towards the threat of box jellyfish influenced a unique study path that eventually led him to producing groundbreaking research. “Box jellyfish are a huge pain in the backside, especially in summertime when you want to snorkel. The more I looked into jellyfish, the more I realised we actually know very little about them considering the threat they pose. So thought it would be a pretty cool place to start asking questions.” Following his undergrad studies at James Cook University in Townsville, Scott pursued further studies through a PhD leading to monumental research breakthroughs in the realm of jellyfish. “Jellyfish are basically invisible in the water. We know very little about what causes them to appear, when they’re going to appear and how many of them will be there. I wanted to try and create a new way to be able to detect them.” Scott applied general characteristics of biology to investigate the phenomena further. “When animals move through an environment, they leave behind their DNA in the form of things like skin, snot or blood. It’s like how forensic scientists scan for DNA at a crime scene. Our method is quite similar. We take two litres of water and filter it down, leaving us with a soup of DNA that’s been left behind by all animals in the area. We search through that and look to see if there is any jellyfish DNA and we use that as a means of detection.” This research will aid in risk management and monitoring safety around beaches. “The more we understand about them and what they’re doing – the better equipped we are to assess and manage risk. With normal species there is so much information related to population figures and movement that we don’t have with jellyfish. If we’re able to fill in that gap of knowledge, then we will have a complete understanding so that we can actually forecast likelihood of jellyfish in the area with greater accuracy.” The research is will also have broader application on both national and international levels. “We’ve been working with another group in Western Australia. They also have really nasty Irukandji jellyfish that love to sting tourists. We’ve been able to apply the technology to that species and it’s starting to be picked up internationally. There’s work being done in Thailand. The hope is we can continue the research and start looking at things such as are box jellyfish moving South.” Scott shows no signs of slowing down as he continues to consolidate his work. “I would love to be able to conduct our lab work on site to reduce delays. If we can test the water straight away, then we can get an answer on site in three hours as opposed to the three to four days it would take in a lab. I would love to get the process down to an hour or even 45 minutes. It would be great to even develop some sort of user-friendly tool that anyone could use.” Scott expressed gratitude to the support he’d received for his work. “I need to say thanks to Lions Australia, they fund 99% if this research.” The Bowen and greater Whitsunday community look upon Dr Morrissey with pride and keenly anticipate the amazing work he will no doubt continue to do. Captions Scott AKA Dr Morrissey – hard at work. Photo supplied
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ANZAC Day is one of the most important days on our calendar as a time for us, as a community, to pause, reflect and come together. Across the Whitsundays, services will be held in towns and communities from Bowen to Proserpine, Airlie Beach to Collinsville, and in our smaller rural areas. These gatherings are a chance for all of us to stand side by side and honour those who have served our nation and those who never returned. As Mayor, I have the privilege of representing our community at these services, but ANZAC Day belongs to everyone. It belongs to the families who have carried the legacy of service through generations. It belongs to the veterans who continue to serve our community in different ways. And it belongs to every resident who takes a moment to remember the sacrifices that have shaped the freedoms we enjoy today. Here in the Whitsundays, service and sacrifice are not distant concepts, they are part of our local story. From Gallipoli to the Western Front, from the Pacific to more recent conflicts, generations of Australians have answered the call to serve including men and women from right here in our region. This year, we also recognise the theme “Women in Service” acknowledging the vital role women have played, and continue to play, in defending our nation and supporting our communities. Among them are people like Commander Natasha Burney, who has ties to the Whitsunday community and served in Afghanistan — a reminder that the ANZAC spirit lives on in people from communities just like ours. Their stories remind us that the ANZAC spirit is not something distant, it is part of who we are as a community. ANZAC Day is also about connection. Standing shoulder to shoulder at a dawn service. Watching the march. Sharing a quiet moment with family, friends and neighbours. These traditions matter. They ensure that the service and sacrifice of past and present servicemen and women is never forgotten and that future generations understand the cost of the freedoms we often take for granted. Bring your family. Bring your children. Help pass on the meaning of this day to the next generation. Because remembrance is not just about looking back, it’s about ensuring those stories and values continue into the future. This ANZAC Day, let’s stand together as a community, united in respect and gratitude. Lest we forget.
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Last week, the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry represented the region’s business community at a roundtable with the Queensland Minister for Small and Family Business, Steve Minnikin, alongside the Queensland Small Business Commissioner, Queensland Cross-Border Commissioner, peak state and national industry bodies, and regional Chambers of Commerce. The roundtable provided an important opportunity for knowledge exchange, bringing forward real-world examples and discussing targeted, practical interventions to address both the short- and long-term impacts of the current fuel situation. The Chamber’s focus was clear: ensuring a strong regional perspective was part of the conversation. Being at the table means more than representation, it’s about shaping outcomes. By engaging directly with decision-makers, the Chamber ensures local priorities are heard, understood, and acted upon for the benefit of the entire Whitsundays community. Chamber President Allan Milostic said it was critical the region remains at the forefront of discussions. “These conversations are where real advocacy begins. Being part of these discussions ensures the concerns of our region are not only heard but can be elevated at both state and federal levels where decisions are made,” he said. Data from Business Chamber Queensland highlights the scale of the issue, with 95% of Queensland businesses reporting impacts, and more than 70% experiencing major or severe challenges. Allan said the situation is rapidly escalating for regional communities. “We are hearing from businesses experiencing supply chain challenges more significant than those during COVID lockdowns. Flights into the region are being reduced, impacting both tourism and freight. At the same time, consumer confidence is being reported lower than during COVID, affecting discretionary spending and travel commitments, with a noticeable shift toward online purchasing,” he said. “The high cost of living and high cost of doing business existed before the fuel crisis, they are now being amplified.” Locally, the impacts are being felt across all sectors, with flow-on effects for businesses, workers, and the broader community. The Chamber is encouraging practical, community-led responses: Shop local first to keep the regional economy viable. Take a measured approach to fuel purchasing to avoid unnecessary strain on supply. Maintain critical services such as public and school bus networks. Support young people, trainees, and apprentices to access transport to work. For businesses to seek professional financial advice and be cautious of predatory lending or quick loan offers. The Chamber is also reinforcing key advocacy priorities, including: Fuel security — addressing both pricing and supply, including sovereign capability and international supply chains, to ensure certainty for agriculture, tourism, health, and transport sectors. Access to reliable, real-time information — including clear, centralised public reporting to support informed decision-making at a regional level. Have Your Say To strengthen its advocacy, the Chamber is calling on regional businesses to share their experiences. Businesses are invited to complete a short survey to help inform ongoing advocacy efforts and ensure the real impacts of the fuel crisis are clearly communicated to all levels of government. Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry
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Hi everyone,
More than 200 people from across our community came together last Friday for a truly special occasion – the inaugural Whitsunday Business Awards, held at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre.
The dress code, Hi-Vis to High-Glam, set an inspiring tone for the night and I was delighted to see such an eclectic mix on arrival: a stunning 1920s tassel dress, some very sharp shorts proudly worn by the younger attendees, and even one guest who channelled Marilyn Monroe with sass and style. This combination felt so authentically “Whitsundays” – a region filled with tradies, self-starters, school leavers, beachside corporates, fun-loving hospos and everyone in between.
The inclusive dress code perfectly matched the spirit of the event itself. For a first-year awards night, it already felt vibrant, welcoming and truly representative of who we are as a region.
Inside, the cabaret-style setting, live music and delicious snack boxes created a warm and celebratory atmosphere. Radio personality Meecham Philpott emceed the evening with humour, energy and just the right amount of genuine enthusiasm.
Twelve of our team of twenty attended, after spending the day in training and choosing to unwind together at the awards that evening. Having so many of our team present made what happened next even more special – hearing our name announced as the winner of the Regional Game Changer Award.
We all leapt onto the stage to collect the award and, in my excitement to gather everyone into place, I managed to drop the solid glass object on the floor! It hit the stage with a thud, which was followed by a dramatic gasp from the audience. Thankfully it didn’t break, and I quickly scooped it up, dusted it off and tucked it safely back into its velvet box. Worried I might be remembered as “the girl who dropped the award,” I apologised into the microphone before offering a brief but heartfelt speech. Fortunately, the crowd was wonderfully kind – and forgiving.
Receiving this award means the world to our team. As many of you know, our central office is based here in the Whitsundays, with half our team working locally and the rest stationed across the regions our other newspapers serve. Five years ago, we launched our first paper, Mackay and Whitsunday Life. Since then, two communities have invited us to open newspapers in their regions, leading to Burdekin Life and Hinchinbrook Life.
We believe passionately in giving regional communities a free voice in print. Our mission is to share quality local stories, celebrate positive news, connect communities and document history as it unfolds. I genuinely feel our papers have been gamechangers for the towns we serve, and I’m deeply grateful to be part of this revival of community journalism.
To all the businesses who won or were nominated – congratulations. It was wonderful to celebrate alongside you. Business is tough, but together we make it shine.
You can read the full Whitsunday Business Award feature from page 17.
Rach
Quote of the week: "If your dreams don't scare you, they are too small" (Richard Branson)
One of the greatest strengths of our region is how deeply people care about where they live. When something has the potential to change our community, you speak up - and I value that more than anything. Over the past few weeks, many of you have reached out about the proposed Mt Challenger Windfarm, and it’s clear there are genuine concerns that deserve straight answers.
After speaking with locals who felt blindsided or left in the dark, I released a have your say survey through my website to gather your views. Nearly 400 of you took the time to respond - an extraordinary effort that shows just how strongly our community feels.
Last Saturday, around 100 residents joined me at the Kelsey Creek Hall to discuss your concerns face-to-face. I want to thank everyone who turned up, asked questions, and spoke honestly about the impact this proposal could have on your properties, your livelihoods, and your way of life. I made one commitment very clear: I will always listen to you, and I will always put the interests of our community first.
Under the Crisafulli Government, the process for assessing wind-farm projects has changed significantly. There is now a stricter and more transparent pathway, including mandatory community consultation, public submissions, and a clear requirement that proponents demonstrate genuine engagement - not just tick-a-box meetings. These rules exist because communities like ours deserve honesty, early information, and a fair say.
There has also been confusion about which wind-farm is which. To be clear: the Mt Challenger proposal is separate from the Proserpine wind-farm which location is closer to the dam and further west.
In the coming days, I will be meeting with the Deputy Premier to ensure your concerns are raised and that the proposer understands its responsibility to communicate properly. I will keep you updated every step of the way. Our community’s voice must be central in this process - and I intend to make sure it is.
Contributed with thanks to Amanda Camm MP
Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival organisers and race directors Michael and Val Kimpton will head to the Gold Coast this weekend as they await the results for the AusTriathlon Event of the Year: Under 500 Participants winner.
The Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival was announced as a finalist last week and Michael and Val have been over the moon since.
"This is the goal I had three years ago when we started on our journey to kickstart our local triathlon festival," said Michael.
"We're just absolutely ecstatic, it's a dream come true.
"I said to the Management Committee during the week, that it was always my goal from day one to achieve the best we could.
"Val and I are so ambitious and we just wanted to put this triphot on the map, big time, and we've been able to achieve that."
The finalists are selected through a rigorous process, with each State Event of the Year winner automatically advancing, alongside additional nominations submitted through the public ballot or by AusTriathlon’s Executive and Awards Committee.
Securing a place as a National finalist is an exceptional achievement, given the high number of triathlon festivals across Australia.
"Being recognised as a National Finalist is a genuine recognition of the quality, impact and professionalism of the Event," said Michael.
"AusTriathlon deeply values the role our Event has played in the sport, providing athlete pathways and attracting visitors to our Region."
When Michael and Val attend on Saturday evening they are going in high spirits especially after their win at the AusTriathlon Queensland awards in 2023, where they won Club Initiative of the Year.
They won this award for reinvigorating the triathlon club and putting on a remarkable regional triathlon festival.
The Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival attracts professional triathletes from throughout Australia and it has the second highest prize pool for an Olympic distance event in Australia. The total of $16k is spread across the first five male and female professional athletes.
The date for the Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon 2026 is already set for the 24, 25 and 26 July.
Michael and Val Kimpton will head to the Gold Coast this weekend hoping to take a win. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
The Australian Air Force Cadets (AAFC) 110 Squadron in Bowen marked a significant milestone last week as they gathered for their Annual Inspection and Passing Out Parade.
Held under clear skies and a sense of quiet anticipation, the ceremony served as the squadron’s final parade for the year, a moment where discipline meets celebration. Cadets stood proudly in formation as family, friends and community members looked on, reflecting the hard work and commitment shown throughout the term.
Before the squadron was dismissed for the year, a series of awards were presented, recognising outstanding achievement, leadership and dedication among the cadets.
AAFC 110 Squadron awardees -
Dux of Initial Stage - Daniel Szollos
Dux of the Junior Stage - Rory Anderson
Intermediate Stage Cadet of the year - Tyler Woodfield
Senior Cadet of the year - Cooper Parry
Most Improved Cadet (Initial Stage) - Isaac Pisaniello
Most Improved Cadet (Junior Stage) - Oliver-James Crawford
Most Improved Cadet (Intermediate Stage) - Finley Hepburn
Most Improved Cadet (Senior Stage) - Archie Yuskan
Encouragement Award - Sam Galios
Attendance Award - Cooper Parry
Top Shot Award - Riley McAllister
Commanding Officers' Award - Cooper Parry and Riley McAllister
Special Acknowledgement - Zeke Flavel
The AAFC 110 Squadron in Bowen meet every Friday evening and cadets learn a variety of subjects including aviation, field and survival skills, leadership and personal development, drill and ceremonial, and service knowledge about the Air Force.
The AAFC 110 Squadron is currently accepting cadets for next year, cadets interested in joining can visit the barrack at 18 Livingstone St in Bowen.
Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
On Sunday the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network hosted a ceremony for International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day at Queens Beach in Bowen.
The event offers support to people affected by suicide and provides a space to honour lost loved ones. The communty came together to remember those lost and provide support to those in need.
It was a busy weekend for BMA CQ Rescue, with seven calls for help received in just 48 hours. Saturday alone saw five missions, keeping crews in the air from before sunrise until well after dark.
The first call came just before 2am from Hamilton Island, where a man in his 20s required urgent care for a suspected snake bite. By 8:51am, the crew was airborne again, this time to Bowen to treat a patient with testicular torsion, who was flown to Mackay for further treatment.
A man in his 40s experiencing cardiac issues was the next patient, with the crew tasked to Proserpine so he could receive onboard medical care en route to Mackay.
At 2:40pm, the team flew to Hayman Island after a man in his 30s suffered heart problems, transporting him to the mainland for further observations.
The fifth mission came at 8:49pm when the night crew was sent to Collinsville to assist another man with cardiac issues.
On Sunday, the first tasking followed the activation of an EPIRB. The crew located two boaties whose battery had failed, leaving them without communication. Both were safe, and a radio was winched down so they could coordinate with Marine Rescue Queensland Mackay, who were on their way to help.
The final mission saw the team sent to Moranbah to assist a teenager suffering complications from diabetes. She was flown to Mackay in a stable condition.
BMA CQ Rescue General Manager Lisa Martin said the weekend was exceptionally busy, but exactly what the service is prepared for. “When our community calls, we answer.”
Rescue on Prudhoe Island. Photo supplied
The SSAA Bowen Branch have a started accepting gifts for their Christmas Raffle, so far the gifts have surpassed $5000 and will continue to grow.
President of SSAA Bowen Branch Marty Duggan said they will continue to accept raffle contribution prizes until the end of the month, and they can be dropped to Marty's store Hunting and Shooting Supplies Whitsunday at 27 Main St, Proserpine.
Marty said the current raffle consists of a chainsaw, toolbox, spotlights, a brewery kit, spray paint kit, rum, hats, stubby holders and more.
He also expressed his thanks to the businesses that contributed to the raffle prizes, he said he received overwelming support from other local businesses.
Tickets are $10 each or three for $20, and can be purchased either at the SSAA Bowen Branch or Hunting and Shooting Supplies Whitsunday.
Hunting and Shooting Supplies Whitsunday will also be particpating in this years Proserpine Christmas Market after last years success of selling over 200 tickets.
Last year the SSAA Bowen Branch raised $4,700 and were able to instal a disabled ramp into their facility, this year they are looking to ugrade their facilities including a new kitchen and meeting area.
The Raffle will be drawn on the 17th December at the Bowen Complex on Roddy Hughes Road at 5pm.
Dingo Beach is set to come alive with festive cheer when the annual Mega Christmas Market returns on Sunday, the 14th of December, from 8am to 12 noon. Hosted by the Dingo Beach Progress Association, the much-loved event promises a morning packed with entertainment, family fun, and Christmas spirit.
One of the highlights of the day will be the arrival of Santa and his elf, who are scheduled to roll in at 10am aboard a big yellow fire truck—a sight sure to delight children and adults alike. The festive atmosphere continues at 10:30am with a special performance of Christmas carols by the Proserpine Citizens Band, filling the foreshore with traditional tunes.
In the true spirit of giving, the Market will once again support the Wishing Tree Appeal, encouraging locals to donate gifts for children facing a tougher Christmas this year.
Visitors can also enjoy a fabulous Christmas BBQ, try their luck in the Christmas hams and seafood raffles, and treat the kids to a morning of free activities, including face painting by Emily, super train rides, and plenty of free treats.
With something for all ages, the Dingo Beach Mega Christmas Market is shaping up to be a must-visit event to kickstart the festive season and bring the community together.
What: Mega Christmas Market
When: Sunday, the 14th of December, from 8am to 12pm
Where: Dingo Beach
Who’s making decisions if you can’t?
Life is unpredictable. A Power of Attorney gives someone you trust the legal authority to make decisions on your behalf if you’re unwell, away, or unable to manage things yourself.
It’s one of those documents people don’t think about, until they really need it. We’ll help you set it up properly and make sure it reflects your wishes.
Whitsunday Law – Helping you prepare for the "just in case."
With over $1.5 billion in property sales and more than 40 years of combined experience across Hamilton Island and the Whitsundays, the Sotheby’s team—Wayne, Lynn, and Joe—offer an unmatched level of local knowledge, professionalism, and proven results.
Backed by the global prestige of Sotheby’s International Realty, we provide full-service coverage from both Hamilton Island and the mainland—ensuring no enquiry is missed and every opportunity is maximised.
We live and invest locally, and we’re committed to securing the best outcomes for our community.
Thinking of selling? Let’s talk.
Call us today to book your no-obligation appraisal. Wayne – 0416 024 168, Lynn – 0415 039 060, Joe – 0415 070 114
At APW, we make corporate registry and secretarial tasks simple—so you can focus on growing your business. Our services cover:
✅Company, Trust & Super Fund setup
✅Corporate register maintenance
✅Director, shareholder & unit holder changes
✅Address updates & meeting minutes
✅Annual review compliance
✅Business name registration
We also help you choose the right corporate structure to maximise tax benefits, minimise risk, and protect your assets.
✨Smart structures = smarter business
In the age of DIY everything, it’s tempting to believe financial decisions can be made with a quick Google search and a dash of confidence. But when it comes to retirement planning, borrowing, wealth building, investing, or personal insurance, the stakes are far too high for guesswork.
Consider retirement. Many underestimate how market downturns can devastate a portfolio when you’re drawing income instead of contributing. History shows crashes like the GFC and COVID slump wiped out years of growth, forcing some to delay retirement by five years or more. Without a strategy—such as a “bucket approach” to protect income streams—you risk selling assets at rock-bottom prices just to fund living expenses.
Borrowing is another minefield. Overleveraging in today’s high-interest environment can turn a dream home or rental property into a financial nightmare. Debt taken on without a realistic, clear repayment plan often balloons out of control, leaving people shackled to obligations they can’t afford.
Then there’s insurance. Many assume their superannuation cover is “enough,” only to discover too late that it barely scratches the surface of their family’s needs. Calculating the right level of protection—whether lump sum or income replacement — requires a deep dive into personal circumstances, something generic advice simply can’t provide.
The truth is stark: households working with qualified financial planners consistently make better decisions, from managing risk to optimising tax strategies. They avoid costly mistakes like chasing returns, timing markets, or relying on bad online advice—errors that lead to unnecessary fees, financial anxiety, and delayed goals.
At Eclipse we’re happy to sit down with people for one or two initial meetings at no charge. We’ll do that deep dive into where you’re at and what’s important to you and discuss the strategies and products that will help you get there. Once we understand the scope of advice required, we’ll quote fees and you decide if you want to proceed to formal written advice and assistance with setting things up.
Financial planning isn’t about selling products; it’s about crafting a roadmap tailored to your life. Before you take that leap—whether it’s a big investment, a new loan, or planning for retirement—pause and seek expert guidance. It could be the smartest investment you ever make.
For a free consultation with local people who understand the complexities of these or any other financial matters, contact Eclipse Financial Planning at 4/1 Carlo Drive, Cannonvale on 49467359 today or visit www.eclipsefp.com.au
Across every tier of management, Imposter Syndrome sits like a quiet assassin. Hate to say it, however, it doesn’t magically disappear as you climb higher; it just gets more creative. Executive Imposter Syndrome just has better vocabulary and access to better coffee.
At entry level, it shows up as the constant need to double-check every email, apologise for having an opinion, and they end up leading defensively.
At middle-management tier, Imposter Syndrome becomes a full-blown circus. These team-members are managing up, down, sideways, diagonally—tying themselves in knots while quietly thinking, “Any minute now, someone’s going to realise I’m winging 40% of this job.” They’re the ones showing up to meetings with coffee-fuelled enthusiasm masking mid-level panic.
At the executive level it can resemble a world of big titles, bigger responsibilities, and even bigger self-doubt. They look confident because they’ve mastered the art of saying things decisively. Their Imposter Syndrome is just better dressed, shakes hands firmly, and nods at strategy documents like it understands them. But it still whispers at 3am: “Hope no one notices you Googled half the words you used today.”
The truth? Imposter Syndrome is universal. If anything, the higher people climb, the lonelier it gets—and the less safe it feels to say, “I don’t know.”
Research suggests up to 82% of people in management experience Imposter Syndrome at some stage. The trick to managing Imposter Syndrome isn’t “being more confident”—it’s calling out your brain’s negative self-talk. Start by naming it when it shows up: “Ah yes, my internal troll has logged on.” Then reality-check your thoughts—evidence beats emotion every time. Stop comparing your behind-the-scenes to everyone else’s ‘highlight reel’ and ask for help when you need it. High performers aren’t the ones who know everything; they’re the ones who stay curious, learn out loud, and keep moving anyway. Imposter Syndrome doesn’t disappear—you just get better at not letting it drive the bus. Name it, Challenge it!
However, maybe the problem isn’t that people doubt themselves. Maybe the real problem is workplaces pretending everyone shouldn’t.
The inaugural Whitsunday Business Awards brought a new sense ofexcitement and pride to the region last Friday night as theProserpine Entertainment Centre welcomed guests from every corner ofthe community. More than two hundred people filled the venue, comingtogether to recognise the achievements, innovation and resiliencethat define the Whitsundays business landscape.
The evening openedwith a warm, lively atmosphere supported by live music and theenergetic hosting of radio personality Meecham Philpott. Hosted bythe Whitsunday Regional Council, alongside the Whitsundays and BowenChambers of Commerce, the event drew strong backing from sponsorsincluding Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale Proserpine, BishoppOutdoor Advertising, Whitsunday Life Newspaper, Whitsunday Transitand a wide network of category sponsors and local suppliers whosecontributions helped bring the awards to life.
Judging was carriedout by an independent panel who assessed every submissionindividually and confidentially. Entries were measured against clearcriteria that focused on excellence, innovation, community impact anda commitment to business growth. This process ensured fairness andintegrity, resulting in a powerful showcase of the region’s risingtalent, community champions and industry leaders.
By the close of thenight, one message was clear. The first Whitsunday Business Awardshad achieved far more than simply recognising winners. It brought theregion together, celebrated local stories and strengthened the senseof pride shared across the business community.
WINNERS
Rising Star:Shontelle Betzel, Bowen Rail Company
Small Business Hero:EDGE Dance Studio Whitsunday
Customer ServiceExcellence: Magnums Accommodation Airlie Beach
Eco Excellence:Coral Sea Marina
Trailblazing YoungEntrepreneur: Sam Vanderpoel, Rolling with Netherpoel
Community Champion:Bowen Tourism and Business
Regional GameChanger: Whitsunday Life Newspaper
Business Leader ofthe Year: Kellee Fogg, Whitsunday Law
Business of theYear: Bowen Old People’s Home Society (Murroona Gardens)
Hall of Fame: AbbotPoint Operations
Murroona Gardens has capped off a standout year, claiming Business of the Year 2025 at the Whitsunday Business Awards, along with a Highly Commended in the Community Champion category.
General Manager and Director of Nursing, Megan Murray, said the recognition felt deeply personal to the whole organisation. She described the win as “an incredible honour” that reflects the everyday effort of staff, volunteers and families who form the Murroona Gardens community.
The Bowen aged care provider has been on a strong run in 2025, also taking out Medium Employer of the Year at both the North Queensland and Queensland Training Awards. It now heads into December as a top-three national finalist for the Australian Training Awards – Small Employer of the Year.
Megan attended Friday’s event with Executive Support Manager Sally Vico and Operations Manager Jodie Masunu. She said having them there mattered. “Having them beside me was very special. They represent the strength of our leadership team and the passion that drives the work we do every day."
What sets Murroona Gardens apart is its people-first approach and long-standing community ties. Megan said the organisation aims to be somewhere older residents feel safe, supported and genuinely valued, describing it as “more than a service. It is a family."
The organisation is also in a period of growth, with work underway on a new dementia small house community and expanded Support at Home services.
Megan thanked staff, the Board, volunteers and local families for their trust.
"This award belongs to Bowen. We are proud to serve our community and excited for what the future holds as we continue to build a stronger, kinder and more connected Murroona Gardens."
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