Photo source: Sarina Arts Council, Sarina Gallery  

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Sarina Arts Council's Sarina Gallery has showcased a beautiful collection of local artwork throughout October, celebrating the creativity and talent of local artists. With one week left to view this month's exhibition before the next display takes its place, visitors are encouraged to pop in, with the gallery open daily from 9am to 2pm.

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Richard Evans

By Richard Evans, President, Whitsundays Writers Festival  

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Last week, I encouraged you to start telling your story. This week, the message is simple: keep going.  

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You don’t need a finished book, a perfect memory or a literary style. You need a collection of stories, written in your own voice, one memory at a time.  

The trick is to make writing a habit, not a mountain to climb. Find ten minutes in your day, perhaps over a morning cup of tea. Don’t worry about spelling, grammar or whether it’s any good. You can tidy it up later. For now, your only job is to get the memory down.  

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Start with a moment, not your whole life. Instead of writing “I was born in 1952”, picture your grandmother’s kitchen on a Sunday morning. What could you smell? Who sat at the table? Was there an argument, a joke, or someone who always arrived late?  

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Details like these bring a memory to life. They also let readers step into your world, even if they’ve never met you.  

Keep a list of stories you might write. A first job, a cyclone, a wedding, a hard decision, a funny neighbour, a place you still miss. Jot down a few words whenever a memory surfaces. On days when nothing comes, you’ll have plenty to choose from.  

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And don’t feel you must begin at the beginning. Memoir isn’t a school assignment. Write the stories that matter to you now. The connections between them will show themselves later.  

Some days you won’t write at all. That’s life, not failure. Start again with a paragraph, or even one sentence: “I remember the smell of rain on the bitumen outside our front door.” Small steps keep the door open.  

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When you’re ready, share a story with someone you trust or join a local writing group. You don’t need anyone’s permission to write, but encouragement helps you keep going. For tips, writing prompts and news oflocal events, visit whitsundayswriters.com and join our mailing list.  

Here’s your challenge for this week: pick up a pen tonight and write one memory in 300 words. If nothing comes, take out an old photo and start with what you see. Don’t aim for perfection. Aim to finish. Next week, write another.  

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Every story you save is a gift to yourself, your family and our community. You lived it. Now make sure it’s remembered.  

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So Much to Discover at the Gallery  

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by Creative Connections Whitsundays  

There’s a fresh burst of creativity at the Community Art Gallery in Proserpine this October, with new artists, beautiful artworks, unique gifts, and opportunities to get creative.  

The latest Gallery changeover brings together a wonderful mix of new work from familiar favourites and exciting pieces from artists joining the exhibition space. From stunning underwater photography and colourfulpaintings to handcrafted glass art, there’s plenty to discover on your next visit.  

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A glimpse beneath the Whitsundays  

Photographer Tony Ayling takes visitors beneath the surface with a captivating collection of underwater photographs captured during his diving expeditions. His images showcase the extraordinary marine life of the Whitsundays, revealing the colour, diversity and beauty of the underwater world that makes our region so special.  

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Fresh colour and creativity  

Looking to brighten your home? Suzanne Baker is exhibiting a delightful collection of small acrylic and oil paintings. These colourful works offer an accessible way to bring original art into your living space, whether you’re looking for a special piece for yourself or a thoughtful gift.  

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The Gallery is also delighted to welcome Dawn Byrne, whose acrylic works introduce another distinctive style to the walls. Welcoming new artists alongside established members is part of what makes each Gallery visit different, offering fresh perspectives and creative approaches for visitors to enjoy.  

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The beauty of handcrafted glass  

There’s something magical about the way coloured glass catches the light, and the new leadlight pieces by talented glass artists Liz Knight and Libby Humphrey are a beautiful example. Their handcrafted works demonstrate the skill, patience and imagination involved in transforming glass into art.  

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Alongside the new exhibitions, visitors can explore the Gallery’s range of unique gifts and locally created treasures. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, searching for something special or simply curious about the creative talent in our community, there’s plenty to inspire you.  

The Community Art Gallery is a place to discover local artists, appreciate different forms of creativity and support the people who contribute so much to our region’s cultural life.  

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Make time to visit this October and see what’s new. You might just find a piece of art that speaks to you.  

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Celebrating local creativity, connection, and community  

Whitsundays Writers Festival

Richard Evans

Festival Director and President

hello@whitsundayswriters.com  

Save the date for the 2027 Whitsundays Writers Festival, 10-12 September.  

Creative Connections Whitsunday

Glenda Brown

President

info@creativeconnectionwhitsunday.com  

Creative Connections Whitsunday is a volunteer-led, not-for-profit organisation supporting local artists, manages the Community Gallery, and growing the arts in our community.  

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A talented artist, Mary’s sketches of landmarks in Proserpine and Whitsunday provide us with an excellent historical record of the changes in our district.  

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Maria (Mary) Spoor was born at Leiden, Holland on November 28, 1912, one of three girls born to Fokke (Fred) Spoor and wife, Sara. Her father was one of six children, five boys and one girl, most of whom had migrated to Australia in the first half of the 20^th century. Before the Second World War, Dutch migration to Australia was sporadic, making the Spoor family among its pioneers.  

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In 1924, encouraged by his visiting sister, Tietstke, Fred sold his hardware store and followed relatives who had left Holland for Australia more than a decade earlier. Mary was 11, and her sisters, Wietstke and Lies (Elizabeth), were 22 and 16. The family packed a few treasured possessions into 17 boxes (including an organ, bike and milk separator) and began English lessons before leaving for the other side of the world.  

The family sailed aboard the S.S. “Largs Bay”, calling at Fremantle, Melbourne and Sydney before reaching Brisbane six weeks later and eventually travelling to Proserpine where they joined Fred’s brother, Pieter (Peter) who was farming in Kelsey Creek. Fred grew cane, established a sawmill for tomato cases, and crafted cabinets and French-polished chess tables for locals. He later bought a lorry, transporting crowds to beach sports days and delivering weekly groceries to farmers and Happy Valley miners. Mary recalled that there were “lots of gates to open and close.”  

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From an early age, Mary loved drawing. In Holland, her father Fred’s art-loving business partner noticed her talent and gave her sketchbooks, paints and brushes, beginning her lifelong passion for art and buildings. In one competition she won a zither, a musical instrument like a harp, which she learnt to play and which she brought with her to Australia.  

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In Australia, Mary continued to paint and won many prizes at the annual Proserpine Show. She found particular satisfaction in depicting buildings and places, knowing they would change over time.  

When Dittmer was discovered and Harry Sinclair left his farm on lease to Wal Spencer and Mary in the late 1930s, they married. Together they raised six children: Daniel, Frederick, Walter, Frank, Kenneth and Jan. Apart from growing cane, Mary and Wal also grew vegetables and sold them around the area, just as Mary’s father had done.  

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Despite the demands of married life, painting remained an important part of Mary’s life. Wal supported her work by driving her many miles to sketch and paint local scenes and buildings. After his death, however, reaching these places became more difficult.  

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Her 1996 book, “An Artist’s Guide to Proserpine and the Whitsundays”, contains 33 sketches of landmarks throughout Proserpine and the Whitsundays. Sales of the book and an accompanying 1996 calendar raised funds for the Proserpine Historical Museum. Mary devoted many years as a volunteer at the museum where her artistic flair was greatly valued. The museum proudly holds several paintings that she generously donated over the years. Mary also created a book of captioned pen sketches to raise funds for the Proserpine Nursing Home.  

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Beyond her art, Mary enjoyed indoor bowls and tennis. She was also an active member of the Uniting Church.  

Mary Spencer passed away in 2016 at the age of 103, leaving a lasting legacy of art and community service. She generously donated proceeds from her artwork to worthy local organisations. Today, her sketches remain a valuable record of the district’s transformation over time.  

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Story sourced from PHMS archives and “Memories” by Mary Spencer (Museum newsletter 18 March 1995). Photo courtesy of Jan Lade (nee Spencer)  

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Studio 54 Revival. Photo supplied: Susan Byrnes

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Airlie Beach Hotel is turning up the glamour for Melbourne Cup Day, with sax solos, sequins and singalong choruses on the cards for the venue’s Studio 54-themed party.

In celebration of the race that stops the nation, Studio 54 Party Band is set to bring the disco era to life with Studio 54 Revival on Tuesday 3rd November.

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The event will invite revellers into the world of the famous New York nightclub, drawing on the dance-floor hits of Donna Summer, ABBA, Earth, Wind & Fire and Kool & The Gang.

“Studio 54 Revival transforms every venue into Melbourne’s most dazzling disco dancefloor!” said Studio 54 Party Band Manager & Singer Susan Byrnes.

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Between Studio 54’s sets, Jam Hot Live’s Charles Oliver and saxophonist Sarah McLean will keep the dance floor moving with a DJ-and-sax pairing flying in from the Gold Coast.

While the usual Jam Hot Live lineup blends live vocals and percussion with DJ mashups, the duo will be dipping into disco to add to Studio 54 flavour, with Sarah stepping into the crowd to dial up the party.

“We’ll have the sax roving around and engaging with the crowd and getting them up on their feet and dancing,” Charles said.

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“We’re going to read the room on the day, so I can’t give too much info what we’d be playing, but it’ll be very disco.”

For Charles, the vibe is less about matching the tension on the Melbourne Cup track and more about giving racegoers a chance to enjoy themselves.

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“We’re going to take the intensity off and let everyone sort of kick back and relax, so they can forget about the losses and celebrate the wins.”

Guests will get a taste of the spotlight with a red-carpet paparazzi entrance, followed by bubbles and canapés on arrival. The Fashions on the Field event will reward some race-day flair with great prizes, while the disco dance competition offers another reason to hit the floor.

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Tickets for this unmissable event are $179 per person, including a seafood and BBQ meats buffet, live entertainment and a three-hour drinks package from 10am to 1pm.

What: Cup Day Event

When: Tuesday 3rd November, 10am-1pm

Where: Airlie Beach Hotel
Tickets: Scan QR Code. https://tickets.avclive.com.au/outlet/event/44158f85-d9e7-4397-8c52-a2351899af7b?_gl=1*l8ns0h*_gcl_au*NzQzNTk5OTMwLjE3OTIzODkwMzI.*_ga*MTIxMzg0NzI4NC4xNzkyMzg5MDMz*_ga_FMGEKEKVXS*czE3OTIzODkwMzIkbzEkZzAkdDE3OTIzODkwMzIkajYwJGwwJGg0NTk5MzM3NzY.*_ga_WWRJXDDDVH*czE3OTIzODkwMzIkbzEkZzAkdDE3OTIzODkwMzIkajYwJGwwJGg4ODkxNzMzNjA.  

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16^th Proserpine Community Centre FREE Community Lunch, 11am-12:30pm, 36 Gardenia Street, Proserpine  

16^th 74 Islands Cocktail Club, 4pm-10pm, 74 Islands Distillery, 24 Mount Whitsunday Drive, Airlie Beach  

22^nd FREE Salsa & Bachata Social, 7:30pm-9pm, Hog’s Breath Café, Airlie Beach  

23^rd Proserpine Community Centre FREE Community Lunch, 11am-12:30pm, 36 Gardenia Street, Proserpine  

23^rd 74 Islands Cocktail Club, 4pm-10pm, 74 Islands Distillery, 24 Mount Whitsunday Drive, Airlie Beach  

24^th Creedance Clearwater Survival, 2pm-5:30pm, Airlie Beach Hotel, Airlie Beach  

25^th Creedance Clearwater Survival, 2pm-5:30pm, Airlie Beach Hotel, Airlie Beach  

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Photos supplied

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Jubilee Tavern in Airlie Beach is getting into the Halloween spirit on Saturday 31^st October, with family fun followed by a party atmosphere.

The cuteness kicks off at 4pm, with a trick-or-treat trail, creepy face-painting, haunted carnival games, a spooky photobooth and a kids’ dance party.

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As the sun goes down, the event takes a spookier turn with Horrorland After Dark, starting at 8pm. Guests can expect roaming scare actors, scary circus decorations, a smoke machine and a balloon drop featuring prizes.

Those keen to embrace the Halloween spirit are encouraged to dress up, with a best-dressed competition adding extra incentive to go all out with costumes.

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Live music and a DJ will keep the party going from 8.30pm to 11.30pm.

A courtesy bus will be available until midnight.

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What? Jubilee Tavern Halloween

When: Saturday 31st October, from 4pm

Where: Jubilee Tavern, Shute Harbour Road and Loop Road, Airlie Beach

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Photo supplied: Amy Keyte.

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Contributed with thanks by Wings Sailing Charters.

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For 24 years, Wings Sailing Charters has been a well known tour company in Airlie Beach, remaining proudly family-owned and operated with Mike and Amy truly at the helm overseeing every detail.  

Over the past two decades, they have built a stellar reputation across the Whitsundays by delivering authentic, high-quality experiences on the water. Today, the business specializes in Private Skippered Overnight Holidays, daily Sail SUP & Snorkel Tours, and their popular Sunset Sail Tour.

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“Being nominated as a finalist in the Overnight Crewed Sailing category is incredibly rewarding for us at Wings Sailing Charters.  

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“We are proud to be one of the few long-established, family-owned and operated tourism businesses in Airlie Beach. It is great to have that effort recognised particularly in such a competitive industry, as we are a much smaller operation these days, operating the one amazing vessel Wings III.

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“Winning an award would be such a great achievement for our team and a meaningful recognition of the experience we work hard to deliver every day. Wings Sailing Charters focuses on personalised service, offering premium quality experiences and a genuine connection with our guests, especially in today's AI-driven world.  

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“An award like this reinforces our commitment to excellence and highlights the value of locally owned tourism businesses. It is also an acknowledgement of our awesome crew past and present, and the effort they put into helping visitors create lifelong memories onboard our charters and our daily tours.”

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Bright Patch Café’s first birthday is still approaching, but the team already has something to celebrate after winning the Micro to Small Business division for Customer Service Excellence at the Whitsunday Business Awards.

For owner and founder Jameela Walker, an occupational therapist who describes herself as an “accidental businesswoman”, the news came as a complete surprise.

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“I think my first reaction was probably something along the lines of, ‘Are you serious? Us? Really?!” Jameela said.  

Opened on the 28th October 2025, Bright Patch grew from the same desire to help people participate and belong that inspired her other business Empowering Pathways Therapy.

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The café was designed as somewhere families could feel comfortable, with attention to dietary needs and a welcome that extended beyond the counter.

“Somewhere children could be children. Somewhere differences were welcomed rather than simply accommodated and somewhere parents could hopefully enjoy a hot coffee before it went cold!” Jameela said.  

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Learning how to run a hospitality business has brought difficult days, with staffing and food costs among the unfamiliar demands but watching families enjoy the space has helped put those challenges into perspective.

“For our team, who have worked through the ups and downs of our first year, I hope it reminds them that what they do matters,” Jameela said.  

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The win adds to a big month for Jameela, who is also a finalist in two categories at the Australian Ladies in Business Initiative (ALIBI) Awards: Regional Service Superstar for Empowering Pathways Therapy and Brick & Mortar Business of the Year for Bright Patch Café.  

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Greg McKinnon and parents Jan and Ron McKinnon

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As the Whitsunday tourism industry prepares to celebrate its achievements at the 2026 Whitsunday Tourism Awards, BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort is proud to once again be recognised as a finalist.

Family-owned and operated by the McKinnon family for more than 30 years, the award-winning resort continues to evolve, with an exciting new development now underway, representing another significant investment in the future of Whitsunday tourism.

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The $14 million development marks an exciting new chapter in the resort's history, introducing spectacular new waterslides, an expansive lagoon pool with swim-up bar, a café and dining precinct, new outdoor cinema and ten new three-bedroom cabins. These additions will further enhance the resort's extensive facilities, creating even more opportunities for families to holiday, play and make lasting memories in the heart of the Whitsundays.

Set amongst 26 acres of tropical gardens in Airlie Beach, BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort has long been a favourite destination for families seeking a memorable holiday experience. With its heated lagoon pool, waterslide park, mini golf, animal park, jumping pillows, outdoor cinema and extensive activities program, the resort offers something for every member of the family.

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Among its newest attractions is the Froggy Express, a charming trackless train that takes guests on a fun-filled journey around the resort. Featuring four colourful carriages, including a wheelchair-accessible carriage, the Froggy Express has quickly become a favourite with families, adding another memorable experience to the resort's ever-growing range of complimentary activities.

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The McKinnon family's ongoing commitment to reinvestment and innovation has been instrumental in shaping the resort into the award-winning destination it is today. The latest development builds on this legacy, ensuring the resort continues to evolve and deliver exceptional holiday experiences for generations to come.

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With more than 60 tourism awards to its name, the resort proudly holds Hall of Fame status at the Whitsunday, Queensland and Australian Tourism Awards, reflecting its longstanding commitment to excellence and contribution to the tourism industry.

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The resort also continues to demonstrate its dedication to sustainable and accessible tourism through nationally recognised accreditations, environmental initiatives and inclusive guest facilities, ensuring welcoming holiday experiences for all.

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Behind the resort's success is its dedicated team, whose passion for hospitality and commitment to exceptional guest experiences remain at the heart of everything it does.

CEO Phil Casey said the awards were an important opportunity to recognise the dedication and achievements of the region's tourism operators.

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"The Whitsundays is home to an extraordinary tourism industry, and these awards celebrate the passion, innovation and commitment behind its success. We congratulate all finalists and wish everyone the very best for a wonderful evening celebrating our industry together."

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Peninsula’s managers have spent more than five years helping guests settle into their Airlie Beach holidays, and their Tourism Awards finalist selection has given the team something to celebrate.

“It is an honour and a privilege to be nominated,” said manager of Peninsula Airlie Beach, Paul Tuddenham.

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“It is a reward for all the hard work that is put into the business.”

“We congratulate all the businesses nominated, with special congratulations to the finalists,” Paul said.

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Since taking over in July 2021, the team has worked tirelessly to earn the trust of property owners while making the complex somewhere guests want to return to.

With high fuel prices and airfares making a holiday harder to afford, Peninsula wants guests to make the most of their stay, unwinding in a spacious unit, strolling into town and heading home ready to recommend the Whitsundays.

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That effort starts with the first enquiry and continues until departure, with returning guests and positive reviews providing welcome encouragement.

“By being respectful, and friendly to guests from the date they enquire or book, providing guests a personal, warm welcome when they arrive, during their stay, and their departure,” said Paul.  

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An award win would recognise the work that goes into looking after the complex and give prospective guests confidence when booking, reassuring property owners that the team is working hard to make Peninsula a place people want to stay.  

“For our guests, they see that we strive in giving them the best service that we can,” the managers said.

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“Enjoy what you do, treat people the way that you want to be treated, take pride in what you do.”

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With just 20 guests at a time and no day visitors, Elysian Retreat gives holidaymakers a quiet corner of Long Island to themselves. Behind that stillness is a small team whose persistence has earned a finalist place in the Unique Accommodation category at the Tourism Whitsundays Awards.

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“We’re truly honoured,” said General Manager of Elysian Alice Caulfield.

“We’re often so busy in our own little world on the island, always looking for ways to improve the experience for our guests, that recognition like this comes as a bit of a surprise.”

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The resort had fallen on hard times before Cyclone Debbie caused significant damage. Siblings Charlton and Laureth, with Laureth’s husband Wayne Rumble, spent a year refurbishing the property before opening in April 2019.

Since then, island life has demanded ingenuity, with retreat managing its own power and water, while weather can rewrite plans without warning. Local suppliers have helped, with helicopter partners even delivering linen when stocks ran short.

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A substantial solar battery upgrade has been a particular source of pride, strengthening the reliability of services guests might otherwise take for granted.

For visitors, the hope is that those efforts translate into a stay where they feel cared for.

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“We hope they leave lighter,” Alice said.

Having qualified through Best of Queensland recognition, Elysian sees its finalist selection as encouragement to keep going.

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“We’re a small team that keeps showing up, keeps learning from our mistakes and keeps caring about the detail, even on the days the island has other plans,” Alice said.  

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Shute Harbour Marine Terminal. Photo supplied: Whitsunday Regional Council

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There's plenty to celebrate in the Whitsundays, and Shute Harbour Marine Terminal is once again helping put our region in the spotlight as a finalist in the 2026 Whitsunday Tourism Awards.

Set against one of the most spectacular coastal backdrops in Australia, the Council-owned terminal is much more than a place to catch a ferry or head out on the water.

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It's a gateway to our world-famous islands, a vital connection for island communities and tourism operators, and an important part of the visitor experience in the Whitsundays.

With modern facilities, stunning views and convenient access to the Great Barrier Reef, Shute Harbour Marine Terminal showcases what makes our region such a special place to visit.

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Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the recognition was a credit to the people who help keep the terminal operating and welcoming visitors every day.

"Shute Harbour is one of those places that reminds you just how lucky we are to live in the Whitsundays," Mayor Collins said.

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"To see our marine terminal recognised among the finalists in our region's tourism awards is a fantastic achievement and a credit to our Council team and the operators who help make it such an important gateway to our islands.

"Congratulations to all the Whitsunday Tourism Awards finalists. These awards are a great opportunity to recognise the businesses, operators and people who work hard every day to make our region one of Australia's favourite holiday destinations."

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Council wishes all finalists the very best at the 2026 Whitsunday Tourism Awards and looks forward to celebrating the people and businesses that make our tourism industry shine.

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There’s more than sailing drawing people to Whitsunday Sailing Club, with its waterfront dining earning a finalist place in the Restaurants and Catering category at the Tourism Whitsundays Awards.

“That's a huge acknowledgement of our Front of House and Events team,” said CEO of the Whitsunday Sailing Club Steve Watson.  

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“They've worked tirelessly to reshape our offering into a modern menu that's fitting of our waterfront location in the heart of Airlie Beach.”

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Pioneer Bay provides more than the view, inspiring a menu of locally caught and Australian seafood alongside Australian beef. Guests might drop in for a long lunch watching the boats come in, or gather for a wedding, with the team putting just as much care into either occasion.

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“That growth hasn't come from luck, it's come from people who care about getting the details right for every guest,” Steve said.  

“Our team is now delivering more than double the food and beverage turnover of two years ago, and they're doing it in a way that lives up to the Whitsundays brand.”

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Established in 1971, the not-for-profit club continues to support sailing across all ages. The tourism nomination follows its Queensland Club of the Year recognition from Australian Sailing.

Steve singled out Airlie Beach Race Week and last year’s Melbourne Cup celebrations as particular achievements for the events team.

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“Our people go above and beyond every day to deliver great experiences for our members and guests,” he said.

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“We're very proud to support our community and our young sailors, many of whom have gone on to represent the Whitsundays nationally and internationally.”

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Whitsunday Holidays Team. Photo supplied: Kristie Kaighin.

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Helping a family find the right holiday home takes more than a quick search and a booking confirmation. For Whitsunday Holidays, it means understanding the client, knowing their properties inside out, and adding personal touches that help guests feel at home before they even arrive on Hamilton Island.

That approach has helped earn the business a finalist place in the Accommodation category at the tourism awards, recognition its founder was overjoyed to share with the small team.

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“We were absolutely delighted to be named a finalist in the Accommodation category,” said Founder and Director of Hamilton Island Kristie Kaighin.

“We’re a small team who care deeply about what we do, so being recognised is a lovely reward for all the work that happens behind the scenes.”

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Founded more than 23 years ago, Whitsunday Holidays specialises in privately owned apartments and homes on Hamilton Island, helping visitors find the holiday that suits them, from romantic gateways to fun-fueled family vacations and anything inbetween.  

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The business has weathered cyclones, the pandemic and changing travel habits, but it’s the familiar faces returning year after year that stand out the most, with relationships with owners and guests growing over the years.

“Seeing families return with the next generation is particularly rewarding,” Kristie said.

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Choosing accommodation can be daunting, especially for visitors unfamiliar with the island. The team aims to take some of that uncertainty away through honest advice and personal recommendations, drawing on years of experience and knowledge of the properties.

“We want guests to feel genuinely looked after, from their first enquiry through to the end of their stay,” said Kristie.  

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“Choosing accommodation can be overwhelming, so we aim to make it easy with honest advice and personal recommendations.

“Most of all, we hope they leave with wonderful memories, feeling relaxed and already talking about their next visit.”

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Available seven days a week, Kristie is most proud of the unwavering support provided to guests and property owners through a busy year.

“From helping families choose the right property to responding quickly when plans change, the team consistently puts care into the little details,” she said.  

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Repeat guests and personal referrals suggest those efforts are appreciated. An award win would offer another reason to celebrate, recognising the people who keep everything moving behind the scenes.

“After more than 23 years, we still get excited about helping people plan their Hamilton Island holiday,” Kristie said.

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The business also credits the wider island community, from cleaners and valets to restaurants and tour operators, for helping make each stay memorable.

For the team, the best outcome remains a guest heading home relaxed and already discussing a return visit.

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“Even after 23 years, helping someone discover this beautiful part of the world never gets old,” Kristie.

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A busy cruise ship season is bringing thousands of visitors to the Whitsundays, creating opportunities for local businesses to showcase their products, services, and experiences.

The Whitsundays is gearing up for another busy cruise season, with ships scheduled to visit Airlie Beach throughout the coming months and local businesses encouraged to plan ahead to make the most of the visitor influx.

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Current published itineraries list 87 scheduled calls to Airlie Beach between October 2026 and September 2027, placing the region among Queensland’s major cruise destinations.  

For local traders, each ship brings an opportunity to connect with visitors, attract new customers, and put Whitsunday products and experiences on the map.

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The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s Airlie Beach Cruise Ship Markets, located at Coconut Grove in Airlie Beach, will be in full swing from 8:30am on scheduled cruise ship days, welcoming visitorsand locals alike.

The market showcases local makers, artists, food vendors and retailers – giving visitors an accessible way to discover the region’s creativity, flavours, and local character.

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Chamber Portfolio Manager Cait Fleming said cruise season offered an important opportunity for businesses to connect with new audiences.

"Cruise visitors currently spend approximately $76 million in our region and many return for longer stay holidays, said Cait.

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“Cruise season has become a great opportunity for local businesses to not only increase their revenue but to make a positive strong impression on these visitors.

“Whether you’re selling a locally made product, offering an experience or running a business in town, these visitors can become new customers and help spread the word about what makes our region special.”

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The Chamber is encouraging local businesses to check upcoming ship dates and prepare for busier trading periods. This could include reviewing stock and staffing, updating opening hours and online listings, promoting visitor-friendly offers, and making it easy for customers to find and contact the business after their visit.

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Market traders and businesses should also familiarise themselves with the cruise schedule, as schedules can change.

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Local businesses can visit airliebeachmarkets.com.au to check upcoming market dates and find out more.

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