The Bowen Visitor Information Centre has been officially recognised as the best in its category, taking out “Visitor Information Centre of the Year” at the Queensland Information Centre’s Association (QICA) Awards.
Three team members of Bowen Tourism and Business attended the annual QICA conference in Moreton Bay last week.
Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy, paid tribute to the entire team of staff, volunteers and committee.
She also thanked Whitsunday Regional Council for their support.
The Bowen Visitor Information Centre welcomed more than 56,000 visitors in the 2024/25 financial year – an average of 1083 per week.
“We were thrilled to accept this award on behalf of Bowen and the entire Whitsundays region. Most importantly, we thank our incredible team of volunteers, who are passionate, dedicated and always welcoming,” she said.
Chair of Bowen Tourism and Business, Jenn Honnery, said the recognition reflected the team’s commitment to providing outstanding customer service.
“They welcomed a record number of visitors in the past financial year – more than nine percent higher than the year before.
“This achievement shows the lasting value of face-to-face service, where a warm welcome, local knowledge, and personal connection make all the difference to a visitor’s experience.
“This award is recognition of the outstanding efforts and expertise of our entire team of staff and volunteers.”
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor, Ry Collins, described the award as a wonderful acknowledgment of the dedicated team behind the Bowen Visitor Information Centre.
"This win is all about the incredible staff and volunteers who go above and beyond every single day, and it’s their hard work and dedication that has put Bowen on the map as one of Queensland’s best visitor destinations,” Mayor Collins said.
“They are the friendly faces who greet our visitors, share their knowledge, and make sure everyone feels welcome. Their passion and pride for Bowen and the Whitsundays shines through in everything they do.
"From its stunning beaches to its rich history and vibrant community, Bowen really is a jewel of the Whitsundays.”
Tourism Whitsundays CEO, Tim Booth, also congratulated the Bowen team.
“A huge congratulations to Bowen on being named Visitor Information Centre of the Year. We’re so lucky to have such a welcoming and dedicated VIC as part of the Whitsundays region, and this award is well-deserved recognition of the passion and pride the Bowen team puts into showcasing our beautiful part of the world.”
Chairperson of the Bowen Chamber of Commerce, Jo Shepherd, echoed the praise, recognising the centre’s vital role in supporting the local economy.
“This award highlights the dedication of the Bowen Visitor Information Centre team in promoting our region and strengthening the business community we proudly represent.”
2025 QICA Award Winners
• VIC of the Year (Regional Tourism Organisation) – Glass House Mountains
• VIC of the Year (Local Tourism Organisation) – Bowen
• VIC of the Year (run entirely by volunteers) – Tewantin
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