Supporting The Heart Of Our Communities

Whitsunday communities have always been built on volunteers, local clubs, community groups and people willing to put their hand up to make a difference.

Whether it’s a sporting club running weekend games, volunteers organising a community event, local artists creating opportunities for others, or service groups raising money for important causes — these organisations are the backbone of our region.

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That’s why Council continues to strongly support community organisations through grants, sponsorships, donations and in-kind assistance right across the Whitsundays.

Every month Council provides support to dozens of local groups helping deliver events, programs and opportunities that directly benefit our communities.

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In May alone, Council approved support for organisations and initiatives across the region including the Whitsunday Songwriter Festival, Archaic Gathering Festival of Arts, Creative Connections Whitsunday, Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network, Bowen River Rodeo and Campdraft, local swimming clubs, campdraft associations, school P&C groups, arts organisations, community BBQs, sporting clubs and junior elite athletes.

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Importantly, this support reaches all corners of our Whitusnday region  from Bowen to Collinsville, Proserpine, Airlie Beach, Cannonvale, Dingo Beach and Mt Coolon.

Council’s Regional Arts Development Fund partnership with the Queensland Government is another important example, helping support local arts, culture and creative industries since 1994. These programs help create opportunities for regional artists while also strengthening local events and tourism experiences.

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But beyond the dollars themselves, what this support really represents is Council backing the people who help bring our communities to life.

These groups create connection, strengthen community spirit, support local businesses, give young people opportunities, improve mental health outcomes and make the Whitsundays a better place to live.

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Council understands that many volunteer organisations are facing increasing costs and growing pressures, particularly in regional areas, which is why we remain committed to supporting community-led initiatives wherever possible.

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When local organisations succeed, our whole region benefits.

I want to sincerely thank every volunteer, committee member, coach, organiser and community leader across the Whitsundays for the work you do behind the scenes every single week.

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You help make this region what it is.

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