Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Left to right: Mayor Ry Collins, BCE Chairman Paul Mclaughin, Bowen State High School Principal Robert Harris, David Mardell of Murray Bay Project, Mick Spencer from Agave Farm Blue Sky Drinks and Will Weaver, GM of Sunwater Projects. Photo sourced: Facebook
Emerging developments, future industries and the changing face of education took centre stage as business and community leaders gathered for the latest Bowen Collinsville Enterprise (BCE) Business Breakfast at the North Queensland Cruising Yacht Club on July 3rd.
Hosted by BCE Chairman Paul McLaughlin, the breakfast welcomed a diverse mix of business owners, community leaders and representatives from local government, education and industry.
The regular networking event provided attendees with updates on major projects, emerging industries and initiatives helping shape the future of the region.
Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins opened the morning with an overview of Council's 2026-27 Budget, outlining key investments and the significant capital works planned across Bowen and the wider region.
Bowen State High School Principal Robert Harris then explored one of the most talked-about topics in modern education, artificial intelligence.
His presentation examined both the opportunities and challenges AI presents in the classroom, while outlining how schools can better prepare their students to coincide with modern technology.
Attendees also heard from David Mardell, who provided an update on the proposed Murray Bay development, with plans for the exclusive resort project highlighting the potential for further tourism investment along the region's coastline.
Agriculture and manufacturing were spotlighted by Mick Spencer, who discussed the rapid progress of the Australian Agave Project since acquiring the farm last year. Guests received an insight into the industry's growth, as well as the upcoming launch of SollosSpirits and its future cellar door.
Rounding out the presentations, Sunwater Projects General Manager Will Weaver delivered a regional water infrastructure update, including progress on the Bowen Pipeline and the projects helping secure long-term water supply for North Queensland communities.
With infrastructure, education, tourism and agriculture all featured on the agenda, the breakfast highlighted both the diversity of the region's economy and the collaborative approach driving its ideal growth.
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