Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
A Night Of Business Magic, Served With A Side Of Community Spirit
The Whitsunday region came together in style on Friday evening to celebrate the talent, innovation, leadership, and community contribution of local businesses at the 2026 Whitsunday Business Awards, held at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre.
More than 200 guests attended the sold-out event, delivered in partnership by Whitsunday Regional Council, the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Bowen Chamber of Commerce.
The Awards recognised excellence across seven categories. Following an initial assessment, 46 businesses and individuals progressed to the nominee stage and final judging, with winners selected by an independent panel of regional industry experts.
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the Awards provided an opportunity to recognise the people and organisations making a difference across the region.
“Tonight is about celebrating the people behind our local businesses who have backed themselves, created opportunities and helped make the Whitsundays such a great place to live, work and do business,” he said on the evening.
“What I love about these Awards is the mix of businesses and people being recognised, from those who have served our communities for decades to the next generation having a crack and building something special right here in our region.
“Congratulations to every winner, highly commended recipient and nominee. You should all be proud of what you contribute, not just to our economy, but to the strength and character of our communities across the Whitsundays.
Allan Milostic, President of the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said it was great to see local businesses come together.
“As business owners and operators, we know what it takes to keep moving forward — the long days, challenges, decisions and opportunities, and the people who make it all possible,” he shared.
“Our region is home to an incredible diversity of industries and businesses, from tourism and hospitality, trades and construction to agriculture, professional services, retail, health and technology.”
“We may take different paths, but we share a common role in making the Whitsundays a great place to live, work and do business.”
Jo Shepherd, Bowen Chamber of Commerce committee member, said the awards give us the opportunity to recognise commitment and celebrate the achievements of businesses across all industries.
“Our region’s strength lies not only in our major industries and investments, but in the determination of the people behind our local businesses. Every business that takes a chance, creates a job, or invests in its future contributes to our region’s prosperity.
“But recognition is only part of the story. We must continue to back our local businesses, invest in our people, share opportunities and work together across our towns and industries. Our region has enormous potential, and it is up to all of us to turn that potential into lasting opportunities for the next generation.”
Best of the Whitsundays: Business of the Year
Small Business Winner: NQ Aerovation
Highly Commended: Belle Property Whitsundays
Medium to Large Business Winner: Bowen Rail Company
Highly Commended: Magnums Unique Accommodation
Business Leader of the Year
Winner: Emma Whybird – Edge Dance Studio Whitsunday
Highly Commended: Hayley Moran – Airlie Health Hub
Rising Star: Employee, Apprentice or Trainee
Winner: Giulian Grasso – Whitsunday Law
Highly Commended: Soumya Santosh - Tassal
Customer Service Excellence
Small Business Winner: Bright Patch Café
Highly Commended: Coastal Brush
Highly Commended: Hog’s Breath Cafe Airlie Beach
Medium to Large Business Winner: Mark Milligan – Pilcher’s Mitre 10
Community Champion
Winner: Whitsunday Counselling & Support
Highly Commended: Bowen Community Op Shop
Think Big
Winner: GRB Mining
Business Legends of the Whitsundays: Hall of Fame
Winner: Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre
Whitsunday Law solicitor Giulian Grasso has been named Rising Star at the 2026 Whitsunday Business Awards in recognition of his professional ascension and dedication to the region just two years after his admission as a lawyer.
For Giulian, the recognition reflects the hours he has dedicated to his work and the connections he has built within the local community, including through his involvement with the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce.
“I was certainly amazed by the calibre of all nominees to the award and certainly was surprised to have received the winning award,” he said.
“Personally, it showcases how, in the small close-knit community of the Whitsundays, one can strive to make a name for themselves and be successful.”
“The award goes beyond simple recognition in the legal field; it’s a furthered appreciation of plentiful hours of dedication to the Whitsunday region.”
Giulian joined the firm in 2022, balancing work with his Bachelor of Laws and Practical Legal Training before his admission as a lawyer on 8th October 2024. During that time, he worked his way through administration and personal assistant roles before becoming a solicitor.
His responsibilities grew further in 2025 when consultant John Ryan retired, forcing him to step up, absorbing that workload. With support from the firm’s director and colleagues, he worked through the challenge, expanding his experience across different areas of law and building on the knowledge he now brings to clients.
“The ‘sink or swim’ environment of Law meant that I had to succeed in the difficult task – leaning on our Director and colleagues for assistance,” Giulian said.
“However, since taking on that workload, I have gained an appreciation for many different aspects and areas of Law and have taken this onboard in assisting clients.”
Giulian isn’t the first bringing wins home to Whitsunday Law, with his colleague Kellee Fogg winning the Business Leader of the Year in 2025.
“For the business, it is truly fantastic to see that Whitsunday Law has produced not one award winner, but two,” Giulian said.
He also congratulated his fellow nominees, who he had joined on the Rising Star panel at the Whitsunday Business Conference.
“To all the nominees, congratulations – you are all held at a high degree for rising stars in the Whitsunday businesses and your nominations are reflective of those achievements,” Giulian said.
“I was certainly nervous when the nominations were released and we had an opportunity to chat and discuss at the Whitsunday Business Conference!”
“You all should be commended for your achievements both inside and out of the workplace.”
With another awards night behind him, Giulian is already looking ahead.
“Bring on the Whitsunday Business Awards for 2027!”
Bowen-based NQ Aerovation is celebrating a major milestone after being named Best of the Whitsundays – Small Business of the Year at the Whitsunday Business Awards.
Established in 2016, NQ Aerovation grew from a passion for innovation, agriculture and emerging drone technology and has become one of North Queensland’s specialist drone businesses.
It services clients across agriculture, mining, environmental management and commercial industries.
Led by Luke and Gillian Jurgens, the locally owned family business specialises in agricultural drone sales, operations, CASA-accredited pilot training, repairs and warranty services, helping businesses embrace drone technology to improve efficiency, safety and productivity.
With strong roots in farming, NQ Aerovation understands the challenges facing regional industries and is passionate about delivering practical, innovative solutions that make a real difference on the ground.
“Winning this award is a huge honour for our team. To be recognised among so many incredible Whitsunday businesses means a lot,” Luke said.
The award reflects years of hard work, innovation and a commitment to supporting customers well beyond the initial sale.
“We don’t just sell drones. We back our customers with real operational experience, training and ongoing support to help them succeed in business and in the field.”
From introducing new technology to local businesses, to delivering specialised drone operations across Queensland, NQ Aerovation continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible with drone technology.
“We’re incredibly grateful to our clients, industry partners and the local community for backing us. This award is a reminder of how far we’ve come, and we’re excited about what’s ahead for NQ Aerovation and the industries we support.”
After more than three decades of giving their all for the community, the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre has stepped into the limelight as an inductee into the Business Legends of the Whitsundays Hall of Fame.
The recognition surprised the team, who said it was an honour that reflected the community’s appreciation for their work.
“We knew we were up against some very strong contenders, so it was an absolute surprise,” said Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre Executive Officer Rebecca Woods.
Established in 1989, the centre has grown into a familiar source of support for local families, providing everything from child care and playgroups to food assistance and emergency relief.
Its services include Scallywags Child Care, Family Support, Community Development, Early Childhood Support, Cannonvale Foodbank, the Furniture Shed and Op Shop.
The centre also hosts outreach services, special interest classes and playgroups, giving residents opportunities to connect and access support.
“We are passionate about what we do and don’t seek praise or validation,” said Rebecca Woods.
“Nonetheless, it is amazing to see our community backing us and appreciating what we do.”
Behind that work is a dedicated team of staff and volunteers, whose contribution, the centre has credited for its success.
“I want to thank my team and volunteers,” said Rebecca.
“It is not possible to achieve this success without their dedication and hard work.”
With more than $400,000 invested in community initiatives and plans for a major mining workshop and training precinct, GRB Mining is positioning itself as a business focused on people, partnerships and regional opportunity.
When GRB Mining was founded, the vision extended well beyond building a successful mining business. It was about creating meaningful employment, supporting local communities and establishing lasting relationships with clients who share the same values.
Founder Martin Bettin believes business success should never be measured by profit alone.
"The mining industry can be heavily focused on short-term profits. At GRB Mining, we're not interested in doing business with a client for three months. We want to be doing business with them for three years and beyond."
That philosophy is built around three fundamental principles: family, work-life balance and giving back to the community.
For Marty, those values began long before GRB Mining existed.
"Growing up, I watched my father continually give back to his community. Whether through sporting sponsorships or helping families in need, he taught me that success creates a responsibility to support others."
Today, that generational philosophy remains central to GRB Mining's identity.
The company has contributed more than $400,000 towards community sponsorships and initiatives throughout the Whitsundays, supporting sporting clubs, families and local organisations. Contributions range from sporting scoreboards to more than 6,000 GRB Mining hydration packs distributed at community clubs and carnivals.
Now, GRB Mining is preparing for its most ambitious investment yet.
Located approximately 20 minutes outside Bowen, the company's 90-acre industrial development, featuring 2.1 kilometres of road frontage, represents a proposed investment of phase 1-3 $10 million and phase 3-7 totalling $22 million.
The development will feature two major components: a mining equipment workshop and a fully integrated tyre training facility.
The workshop will provide regional mines with a closer alternative for machinery maintenance and rebuilds, reducing the need to transport equipment to Mackay, lowering costs and helping minimise heavy equipment movements along the Bruce Highway.
Importantly, it will create local employment opportunities for mechanics, electricians and specialist tradespeople, allowing more workers to return home to their families each night.
GRB Mining anticipates introducing five to seven workshop apprenticeships annually.
Its proposed tyre training facility aims to become Queensland's first fully integrated training centre, offering pathways from light vehicle tyre qualifications through to ultra-class mining equipment, with an anticipated 25 to 30 apprenticeship opportunities.
The development is expected to generate between $20million and $25 million in regional economic activity, creating 35 local jobs subject to project delivery and operational demands.
For Marty, the ambition remains unchanged.
"We're not building this business just for today. We're building something that creates opportunities for the next generation. If we can give a young person a career, help a family through difficult times or support a child chasing a sporting dream, that's what real success looks like."
For GRB Mining, the future isn't simply about growing a business. It's about growing the community alongside it.
In a switch from her usual role of helping little ones step onto the stage, the owner of EDGE Dance Studio Whitsunday stepped into the spotlight this week after being named Business Leader of the Year at the Whitsunday Business Awards.
“It was a complete shock!” said Studio Owner Emma Whybird.
“There were so many great business leaders nominated in our category, so when they read out my name I was genuinely surprised.”
Since opening in 2022, EDGE has grown from 115 students to almost 300 across Proserpine and Bowen, employing nine local staff.
“When I opened EDGE, I wanted it to be a welcoming place where every child felt valued and confident, and where our team had room to grow too,” Emma said.
The growth hasn’t been without its challenges, but Emma credits her team and the foundations they have built together for helping the studio move forward.
“My name might be on the award, but it belongs to the team and families who make EDGE what it is,” Emma said.
“Learning to delegate and trust my team, instead of trying to do everything myself, has probably been my biggest lesson.”
While end-of-year concerts remain a highlight, everyday classroom achievements carry meaning, from a young dancer skipping independently to a shy child finding the confidence to join in.
“For me, success has never been only about growing a business,” Emma said.
“It’s about growing people, creating opportunities and making a positive difference in the lives of others.”
A family business going “toe to toe with the big boys” is how Mark Milligan sees Pilchers Mitre 10’s success at the 2026 Whitsunday Business Awards.
The store took home the Medium to Large Business Customer Service Award, catching Mark by surprise and giving the whole team something to celebrate.
“It was a total surprise, and one I wasn’t expecting the win,” he said.
Mark has worked with the Pilcher family for four years, valuing the opportunity to be part of an established local business and learn from his team mates along the way.
While he remains unsure who nominated him, he said he was grateful and humbled by the recognition.
“I am part of a good team, which is why we share the win,” Mark said.
That appreciation also extends to the customers who continue to support the business. Mark said the award offered an opportunity to recognise the contribution local businesses make to their communities, while acknowledging the people who help keep them going.
“The success of our business is also a reflection of our loyal customers,” he said.
“It’s a mutual gratitude.”
Mark congratulated the other nominees, saying being nominated was a reward in itself, while also thanking the awards for spotlighting a local business like Pilchers.
“The awards offer an opportunity for people to appreciate the effects a well run local business has on a community,” Mark said.
Mark Milligan was thrilled to take home an award on Friday night. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville
The Whitsundays has a new Community Champion and its recipients are quick to shine a spotlight on the people they serve. Chosen from a field of eleven worthy nominees, Whitsunday Counselling and Support (WCS) took home the honour at the 2026 Whitsundays Business Awards on Friday night, with recognition for their commitment to making a meaningful difference to the community for over 35 years.
From a single refuge opened in Cannonvale in 1990 by a group of local women, WCS has grown into the only free service, funded to respond to domestic, family and sexual violence across almost 24,000 square kilometres, from Collinsville to Hamilton Island. For many in this region, where the nearest comparable service is a two-hour drive south to Mackay, it’s the difference between finding support and going without.
Accepting the award, Chief Executive Officer Kirsty Gillett said it was the ripple effect on the community that makes the work so meaningful.
“Knowing that our work has made a positive difference in the lives of people across the Whitsundays is the greatest recognition we could receive,” says Kirsty.
“Being recognised in this way by our community is a privilege, and one we accept with gratitude.”
The timing could hardly be more fitting with the award landing during Sexual Violence Awareness Month. It was during this same month last year that WCS brought Reclaim the Night back to Airlie Beach, drawing seventy-five community members to walk together in support of survivors.
The spirit of bringing people together runs through much of what the organisation does, from the vibrant Child Protection Week Colour Run to the candlelight ceremonies held each year across Cannonvale and Bowen, every event is driven by a team dedicated to upholding a vision of safety and respect, and where violence has no place.
“This award really belongs to an extraordinary team of counsellors, case managers, refuge staff, support workers, volunteers and committee members who show up every day for people experiencing some of the most difficult moments of their lives,” says Kirsty.
Last year alone, WCS supported 1,866 people across the region and provided refuge for women and children with nowhere else to turn. And nationally, the statistics aren’t getting any better.
“We cannot ignore the reality that across Australia more than 50 women and 20 children have been killed by violence this year alone, and it is only October,” says Kirsty.
“I want to acknowledge the individuals and families who place their trust in us. Your courage, resilience and determination inspire us to show up every single day. You are the reason we do this work.”
For an organisation that has always believed prevention is a shared responsibility, the award is also an invitation to keep the conversation going.
“This award is a wonderful recognition of how far we’ve come, but it also reminds us of the work still to do.”
The Original Hog’s Breath Cafe Airlie Beach was awarded Highly Commended in Customer Service Excellence at Friday night’s WCC&I Business Awards.
Since taking over the OG, the team’s focus has been simple: look after people, create a great atmosphere, serve great food and drinks, and make everyone who walks through the doors feel welcome.
For owners JP and Adam, customer service is a team effort, from the first hello at the door and the signature woohoo welcome, the kitchen, bar, floor and everyone working behind the scenes.
“A massive thank you to our incredible team. This recognition belongs to every one of you!” shared JP and Adam.
“Thank you also to our locals, visitors, suppliers, friends and everyone who continues to support the OG. We genuinely appreciate every booking, every meal, every beer, every review and every recommendation.”
The OG team congratulated Bright Patch Café on winning the Small Business award and all the finalists and winners on the night.
“We’re proud of how far we’ve come — and we’re only getting started!” they added.
JP and Adam from the Original Hog’s Breath Cafe in Airlie Beach. Photo supplied
When Bowen Rail Company started in 2020, the easy option would have been to run it from Brisbane. They chose Bowen instead.
That decision was about more than an address. As Bravus’ rail freight business hauling coal from the Carmichael mine to Abbot Point, they wanted the jobs, investment, and opportunities that come with the operation to stay in regional Queensland.
In six years, the company has grown from a start-up into a regional employer of more than 200 people, the majority of whom call Bowen home. You’ll find them on the sideline at Seagulls games, poolside at Bowen Swimming Club, and in the queue at Jochheim’s most mornings.
“We buy from local suppliers wherever we can, and our traineeships give young people and those looking for a change the chance to build a future in rail without leaving Bowen,” said Brendan Lane, General Manager Infrastructure & Logistics, Bowen Rail Company.
“None of that happens without doing the job well. Our people operate a safe and efficient rail business 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and take genuine pride in what they do and what it means to their community.
“Being named Business of the Year at the 2026 Whitsunday Business Awards belongs to them. It recognises their professionalism, hard work, and commitment to Bowen and the Whitsundays from day one.
“On behalf of everyone at Bowen Rail Company and Bravus, thank you. I’m proud of how far the business has come, and prouder still that it was built in Bowen, where it belongs.”
New mum Hayley Moran has shown that raising a family and being an exceptional business leader can go hand in hand, taking home Highly Commended in the Business Leader of the Year category at Friday night’s Whitsunday Coast Chamber of Commerce and Industry (WCC&I) Business Awards.
Surprised, thrilled and elated, Hayley was glad she took the leap and left her four-month-old son at home for the first time, after her devoted husband and business co-owner of Airlie Health Hub, Paul, encouraged her to attend.
“You never know, you might win!” he told her.
Hayley’s husband’s prediction proved right, although the recognition came as a complete surprise.
“It was definitely a shock!” Hayley shared.
“I was just so grateful to be nominated, let alone receive Highly Commended. Running a small business, you rarely stop to reflect on how far you’ve come, so to be recognised alongside so many incredible local business leaders was really special.”
Hayley said the recognition was not just a win for Airlie Health Hub, but also for the suppliers, local farmers and other small businesses in the community.
“Recognition like this means so much to a small business, especially when you’ve poured your heart and soul into it.
“It’s also a win for the incredible local farmers and small producers we support, helping shine a light on their hard work and getting our name and what we stand for out into the community.”
Being recognised in the Business Leader of the Year category was particularly meaningful for Hayley, who said she had never really thought of herself as a business leader.
“I’ve never really thought of myself as a business leader, just someone who’s passionate about what we do and willing to work hard for something I believe in. So, to be recognised in this category was a real honour.”
Based in Cannonvale, Airlie Health Hub offers a refreshing alternative to mass-produced food and everyday chemical exposure, championing wholesome foods, fresh garden produce and a vibrant community centred on healthier living.
Hayley also congratulated her fellow nominees and thanked the customers who continue to support the business.
“A huge congratulations to everyone! I know firsthand how much hard work, sacrifice and determination goes into running a business. There are so many incredible people doing wonderful things in the Whitsundays, and I think we should all be really proud of what we’re contributing to our community,” she said.
“A massive thank you to our beautiful customers and community for continuing to support us. Every time you choose to shop small, you’re supporting so much more than just one business. You’re supporting local families, farmers, makersand a whole community of hardworking people. That’s something we’re incredibly passionate about.”
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