2026 Whitsunday Tourism Awards Celebrate Region's Best

CEO of Tourism Whitsundays Tim Booth Photo credit: R Jean Photography  

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The region’s leading tourism businesses were recognised at the sold-out 2026 Whitsunday Tourism Awards on Saturday 24 October at Elementa Whitsundays. With 87 finalists across 14 categories, the Awards celebrated the exceptional operators that strengthen The Whitsundays’ reputation as a world-class destination.

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This year’s awards introduced a refreshed assessment process, as rather than relying on written submissions, recognition was based on business performance and customer feedback.  

Businesses were assessed using Best of Queensland Experience Program (BOQEP) scores, customer reviews through the Global Review Index, contributions to Tourism Whitsundays’ STARS industry updates and completion of the Whitsundays Welcomes You training program, which helps local workers build their knowledge of the region and deliver memorable visitor experiences.

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Tourism Whitsundays’ Chief Executive Officer, Tim Booth, said the Awards reflect the collective strength of the region’s tourism offering, and the exceptional visitor experiences that continue to set The Whitsundays apart.

“The standard of tourism excellence across The Whitsundays as a whole is something to be incredibly proud of,” said Tim.  

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“This year, 130 local tourism products achieved Best of Queensland recognition, with 87 finalists across 14 categories recognised at the Awards.

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“These businesses reflect the quality and diversity of our region, from world-renowned reef and island experiences to exceptional accommodation, tours and hospitality.

“For the first time, we also introduced the 219 Club Recognition, celebrating businesses that achieved a near-perfect score across every assessment metric.

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“This year, we awarded this to Whitsunday Segway Tours, Whitsunday Escape and Portland Roads Sailing The Whitsundays.  

“This is an outstanding achievement and a testament to the commitment these operators bring to delivering exceptional visitor experiences.

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“Congratulations to all our finalists and winners. Their commitment to exceptional visitor experiences continues to strengthen The Whitsundays’ reputation as one of Queensland’s leading tourism destinations.”

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Whitsunday Regional Council’s Mayor, Ry Collins, said the region’s tourism success is built on the people and businesses who deliver exceptional experiences and support local communities.

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“The Whitsundays might be famous for our islands, beaches and the Great Barrier Reef, but it's our people who make this place special,” said Ry. “Behind every great visitor experience are local businesses, hardworking teams and passionate people who take enormous pride in what they do.

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“Tourism is a huge part of who we are as a region. It supports local jobs, strengthens our communities and gives people from around the world a reason to fall in love with the place we're lucky enough to call home. These awards are a chance to recognisethe people who put in the hard yards, often behind the scenes, to make those experiences happen.

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Tourism Whitsundays’ Chair, Katelyn Aslett, congratulated this year’s winners and finalists, recognising their dedication to showcasing the region and strengthening its reputation as a world-class destination.

“As Chair of Tourism Whitsunday, I’d like to extend my congratulations to all of this year’s award winners and nominees,” said Kate.  

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“It’s a real privilege to celebrate an industry filled with such passionate, talented and dedicated people who work tirelessly to showcase everything that makes the Whitsundays so special.”

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