Time To Think Big At State Of The Region 2026

Whitsunday Regional Council is hosting the third annual State of the Region at the Proserpine Entrainment Centre on 8 May 2026.

Following on from two years of highly successful events, this year’s forum is set to inspire and motivate, leading the conversation about the future of the Whitsunday Region.

The forum will be led by MC Natassia Wheeler, CEO Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC) and will be composed of three panels spotlighting former Olympians, business leaders, industry experts and government decision makers.

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Mayor Ry Collins will lead the conversation as he outlines the state of the Whitsundays and the opportunities ahead.

“The Whitsundays is entering a serious growth phase.

“This event is your opportunity to be part of the discussions shaping our region’s future and to gain real insights into our economic future,” Mayor Collins said.

The Whitsunday Region is the fastest growing Local Government Area (LGA) in regional Queensland.

“Our region is booming, with strong economic benefits being delivered to the local economy.

“We’re eager to explore how Brisbane 2032 will contribute to this expansion in the leadup, delivery, and in the aftermath of the games,” he added.

The forum will deliver real practical tips and motivate participants to find new and exciting opportunities to grow, adapt and think bigger.

The event is free, but pre-registration is required. To reserve your spot and be part of the action, visit https://bit.ly/WRC-SOTR

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Additional Information

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Olympic Panel

• Dominique Lamb - Brisbane 2032

• Cate Campbell – Australian Olympic Gold Medallist Swimmer

• Cedric Dubler – Australian Olympic Decathlete

• Al Vinney – Australian paralympic Rower & World Championship Silver Medallist

• Sam Tait – Australian Paralympic Alpine Skier

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Industry and Investment Panel

• Bernie Hogan – Chief Executive, Queensland Hotels Association

• Stuart Field – Managing Director, Oztix

• Euan Robertson, Managing Director, Blackstone

• James Gilmour, Co-Founder & Director, Gilmour Space Technologies

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Local Leaders Panel

• Tim Booth – CEO, Tourism Whitsundays

• The Hon Dale Last MP – Member for Burdekin

• Paul McLaughlin – Chairman, Bowen Collinsville Enterprise

• Jenn Honnery – CEO Bowen Gumlu Growers Association

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