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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Their top tips for fellow business owners include:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Did you Know?

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

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

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

For more information, head to Council’s website.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contributed by Tourism Whitsundays

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Tucked away in a quiet corner, the well-loved Shingley Beach Resort has earned its reputation not just through its picturesque ocean views but by building decades of trust, family memories, and with continuous improvements.

The resort, established in 2000, has been a favourite among returning guests, with many having first visited for weddings or honeymoons and now return for anniversaries. Generations of families have created traditions around staying here, turning it into a cherished home-away-from-home.

Shingley Beach Resort has been nominated in the Best of Queensland Experience, with Office Manager Tracey Tyler and Business Owner Geoff Canard saying it’s all due to the amazing location.

The resort is just minutes from the heart of town, and it continues to impress new visitors and long-time guests alike with its relaxed coastal charm and easy access to local attractions.

“The location is the star of the show,” said Office Manager Tracey Tyler.

“Nowadays, as it gets busier in town, we get a lot of comments and good feedback on our quiet location and the relaxing area.

“Being adjacent to Coral Sea Marina benefits us as well, the café’s, restaurant, boat life, and parklands.”

The resort offers a wide range of self-contained accommodation, from studio apartments to spacious three-bedroom townhouses. All of the rooms face the ocean, providing stunning views. Many guests comment on waking up to the morning panoramic ocean views and the peaceful, relaxed balcony sunsets, that offer the perfect setting to unwind at the end of the day.

But it's not just about the amenities, it's about the people too. “Our staff put 100% effort into making sure every guest has an excellent stay,” said Tracey.

“We've really poured our hearts into this place.”

The resort also doubles as a local information centre and tour booking agent, offering guests curated access to iconic Whitsundays experiences. Being close to many tour departure locations makes Shingley Beach Resort a highly sought-after location; from kayaking and paddle boarding to full-day ocean tours, visitors can explore the region with ease. Shingley Beach Resort also offers boutique shop fronts and the award-winning onsite specialty bakery & café – My Rainbow Bakery, Café & Catering.

At Shingley Beach Resort, staff are working hard on updating and renovating all the rooms. From fresh new paint to modern furniture, all new works enhance a guest's stay. Refurbished rooms, alongside the stunning view of the ocean, give guests a breath of quiet relaxation away from the busy Airlie Beach. It’s a place where comfort, convenience, and natural beauty meet.

From its roots in the early 2000s to its modern upgrades and enduring legacy, this resort isn’t just a destination — it’s a cornerstone of local tourism and community history. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for the tenth, there’s always an inviting welcome & friendly atmosphere waiting at Shingley Beach Resort.

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Business Owner Geoff Canard and Office Manager Tracey Tyler welcome you to Shingley Beach Resort. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Coral Sea Resort and Pavilion is thrilled to be nominated for the Best of Queensland Experience Awards as it's a true testament to the passion, dedication, and attention to detail the staff pour into every guest's stay, every dish served, and every special moment they help create.

Ideally located on the waterfront in the heart of Airlie Beach, the Coral Sea Pavilion is a favourite for both locals and visitors alike. The restaurant prides itself on showcasing the best of the Whitsundays, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and seafood-inspired menus that reflect the vibrant coastal lifestyle.

Whether you're popping in for a laid-back lunch, a romantic dinner, or a gathering with friends, you’ll be treated to stunning ocean views and exceptional hospitality.

Happy Hour is held daily from 3–5pm, and on weekends the Coral Sea Pavilion comes alive with live music, signature cocktails, making it the perfect spot to unwind and soak in the tropical atmosphere.

Coral Sea Resort also has exclusive staycation specials, tailored event packages, and midweek dining deals that offer great value without compromising on quality. For more information, to view the latest menus, to book your table or stay directly, head to coralsearesort.com

Book a table or stay today and see why Coral Sea Resort and Coral Sea Pavilion are the best in Queensland.

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Visit Coral Sea Resort and Pavilion today. Photo supplied

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Following last years success Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN) are excited to announce the guest speakers for their Legends Night.

WSPN President Matt Stokes said the speakers this year will be inspirational and attendees will come away with pearls of wisdom and knowledge that may help themselves or someone they know is struggling.

Legends:
Nick Farr-Jones – Former Wallabies captain and rugby legend, Nick has gone on to become a highly successful businessman, serving on various boards and committees. He’s a passionate public speaker and is actively involved in the mental health space through his own charitable initiatives.

Ray Thompson – Former North Queensland Cowboy and current Community Ambassador for the Cowboys. Ray plays a key role in the Resilience Project, which teaches primary school students about mental health and resilience. WSPN has proudly supported this initiative over the years.

Jay Shipston – Triple M presenter and all-round legend. Jay brings personal insight with lived experience and was the MC last year. He’s known for his energy, empathy, and connection with the community.

Guest Speaker:
Lisa Cocker – A much-loved member of the Bowen community, Lisa made a powerful statement by shaving her signature Tongan locks to raise $5,000 for suicide prevention. She also rallied up the Bowen community for a memorial service for several of the people lost to suicide over the last couple of years.

On the night there will also be a lucky door prize, raffles and an auction, which includes prizes such as day trips on the boats, jet skis, a Jonathon Thurston portrait, and some amazing Rugby Union memorabilia.

Included with the prize of the ticket, is the chance listen to the amazing speakers, partake in the prizes, enjoy a welcome drink and dinner, and mingle, and catch up.

Matt Stokes said that opening up and talking is a great way to improve mental health.

“The biggest message is when you are struggling do not bottle it up and say nothing,” he said.

“The best thing to do and something we should all remind ourselves, not just for us but for others as well, is to talk to someone, get help and reach out.

“A little bit of communication and some guidance can help, a lot of the time we have made the problem a lot bigger than it is in our head, because we haven't had perspective from others.

“Don't isolate, but reach out and talk to a friend, talk to a family member, or talk to a mate. It’s amazing sometimes by just getting it off your shoulders can make a huge difference.”

WSPN are a community led network driven to reduce suicide and its impact in the Whitsunday Region, they also host a free monthly BBQ Breakfast out the front of Shirtfront Solutions and ENZED.

At their last breakfast WSPN welcomed over 50 people and people are encouraged to have a nice breakfast, coffee, listen to the guest speaker and engage in conversations.

WHAT: Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network – Legends Night
WHERE: Reef Gateway Hotel
WHEN: Friday 27th June (6pm – 9pm)
TICKETS: $90 per person

The Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network's Legends Night was a huge success last year. Photo credit: Whitsunday Life Newspaper

Scan this QR code to purchase tickets to the Legends Night

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Tour de Cure Takes Off From Airlie

By Victoria Velton

The 2025 Tour de Cure Signature Tour has officially kicked off from Airlie Beach, with over 100 cyclists embarking on a journey that will span the North Queensland coast and finish in Port Douglas. With the support of locals, national media coverage, and an outpouring of community pride, the event launched in a spectacular fashion. Mayor Ry Collins was front and centre at the Airlie Beach Foreshore to sound the starting horn, joining Sunrise sports host Mark Beretta in celebrating the riders and their mission to raise vital funds for cancer research, support, and prevention across regional Australia.

Wheels of Hope Roll Out from Airlie Beach

Cheered on by gathered crowds, the 2025 Tour de Cure Signature Tour officially began its long trek north, stopping in regional towns on its journey to Port Douglas. Mayor Ry Collins had the privilege of sounding the starting horn as 167 incredible cyclists took off from the starting arch at the Airlie Beach Foreshore.

“I had the honour of sending off over 100 incredible riders of the 2025 Tour de Cure Australia Signature Tour from the Airlie Beach Foreshore, with their first leg heading north to Dingo Beach then on to Bowen,” he said. “With the event being broadcast nationally on Sunrise, it was a great opportunity to promote an important cause as well as our wonderful Whitsunday region with sports news host Mark Beretta.”

For Mayor Collins, the event’s presence in the region held special meaning. “When first approached by TDC last year, I was very keen to get this event to our region with its purpose of raising vital funds for cancer research, support, and prevention programs,” he said. “This insidious disease took my father’s life just over four years ago and continues to affect so many in our community.”

As part of the tour’s initiative, a $10,000 donation was presented to the Trudy Crowley Foundation, with a second $10,000 grant to be awarded to Bowen Hospital to assist local cancer patients.

“It was great to meet and talk with enthusiastic riders who had come from all over Australia, including friend and local legend Robert Lee and Commonwealth Games cycling gold medallist Chloe Hosking,” Mayor Collins added. “If you see them around today, give the riders a huge Whitsundays cheer as they push on for this great cause!”

From heartfelt moments to high energy, the Tour de Cure’s start in the Whitsundays marked a powerful start to a meaningful journey. Follow the Tour and see the amazing moments of their journey, check out www.flickr.com/photos/tourdecure/albums and to support this important cause in finding a cure for cancer, donate here at: https://tourdecure.com.au/give

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Mayor Ry Collins had the privilege of sounding the starting horn to mark the beginning of Tour de Cure 2025 with 167 riders cycling to Port Douglas from Airlie Beach. Photo supplied

Photo credit: Tour de Cure Australia

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