New Era Tor Airlie Beach Cruise Ship Markets

The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry is stepping into a new role as manager of the Airlie Beach Cruise Ship Markets, ensuring this much-loved event continues to thrive for stallholders, local businesses, community groups, and visiting passengers.

Commencing this month, the Chamber will oversee market operations with a clear commitment: to continue delivering a market that feels welcoming to cruise ship guests while being supportive of local stallholders.

Chamber President Allan Milostic said the markets are a vital opportunity to showcase the Whitsundays.

“Cruise ship visitors are often getting their very first taste of Airlie Beach and our region through these markets,” Allan said.

“We see enormous potential to strengthen that experience while supporting micro and small businesses and community groups.”

After 22 years of dedicated service, the Whitsunday Lions Club handed the reins of the Cruise Ship Markets to the Chamber. Their efforts have made the markets a much-loved attraction for both visitors and locals.

“Operating a market is a challenging job. Whitsunday Lions are confident that the new operators will meet those challenges and continue the success of this famous market,” said Lions Club representative Helen Toy.

“Our Lions Club will now be concentrating our efforts on the Lions Community Market held every Saturday on the foreshore.”

The Chamber acknowledges and thanks the Lions Club for their stewardship and contribution over more than two decades, which has built a strong foundation for the future.

In this next chapter, the Chamber is focused on working closely with current stallholders to provide additional services and support to help boost their businesses. At the same time, plans are underway to broaden the market’s appeal by introducing new elements in 2026.

To guide this evolution, the Chamber will soon survey stallholders to gather their feedback and ideas. Their insights will be central in shaping what comes next.

“Stallholders are the heart of these markets, and we want to make sure their voices guide how we evolve,” Allan said.

“Our goal is to keep what works well, while exploring new opportunities that will strengthen the experience for visitors and locals alike.”

The Chamber is also pleased to welcome Margie Murphy of Airlie Events and the Great Barrier Reef Festival to manage the markets on the ground over the coming months. Her experience and local knowledge will help ensure a smooth transition.

Chamber say that a key element of this new era will be reinvesting market revenue back into the Whitsundays community.

From 2026, eligible not-for-profits and community events will be able to apply for sponsorship funds generated by the market.

This approach will ensure the markets not only benefit stallholders and visitors, but also support local clubs, charities, and festivals that contribute to the social and cultural fabric of the Whitsundays.

To maintain transparency, the Chamber will publish annual reports outlining how funds are distributed.

“Our approach is about sustainability, accountability, and ensuring the markets remain a valued asset for the whole community,” Allan said.

The Chamber looks forward to working with Whitsunday Regional Council, stallholders, and community organisations to ensure the Cruise Ship Markets continue to grow as a vibrant, welcoming, and beneficial experience for all.

Stallholder enquiries can be made to: markets@whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au

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Cait Fleming, Margie Murphy, Helen Toy, Allan Milostic, and Julia Evans at the Cruise Ship Markets. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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