The inaugural Whitsunday Business Awards brought a new sense ofexcitement and pride to the region last Friday night as theProserpine Entertainment Centre welcomed guests from every corner ofthe community. More than two hundred people filled the venue, comingtogether to recognise the achievements, innovation and resiliencethat define the Whitsundays business landscape.
The evening openedwith a warm, lively atmosphere supported by live music and theenergetic hosting of radio personality Meecham Philpott. Hosted bythe Whitsunday Regional Council, alongside the Whitsundays and BowenChambers of Commerce, the event drew strong backing from sponsorsincluding Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale Proserpine, BishoppOutdoor Advertising, Whitsunday Life Newspaper, Whitsunday Transitand a wide network of category sponsors and local suppliers whosecontributions helped bring the awards to life.
Judging was carriedout by an independent panel who assessed every submissionindividually and confidentially. Entries were measured against clearcriteria that focused on excellence, innovation, community impact anda commitment to business growth. This process ensured fairness andintegrity, resulting in a powerful showcase of the region’s risingtalent, community champions and industry leaders.
By the close of thenight, one message was clear. The first Whitsunday Business Awardshad achieved far more than simply recognising winners. It brought theregion together, celebrated local stories and strengthened the senseof pride shared across the business community.
WINNERS
Rising Star:Shontelle Betzel, Bowen Rail Company
Small Business Hero:EDGE Dance Studio Whitsunday
Customer ServiceExcellence: Magnums Accommodation Airlie Beach
Eco Excellence:Coral Sea Marina
Trailblazing YoungEntrepreneur: Sam Vanderpoel, Rolling with Netherpoel
Community Champion:Bowen Tourism and Business
Regional GameChanger: Whitsunday Life Newspaper
Business Leader ofthe Year: Kellee Fogg, Whitsunday Law
Business of theYear: Bowen Old People’s Home Society (Murroona Gardens)
Hall of Fame: AbbotPoint Operations
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