Local business leaders came together this week to celebrate the launch of the Whitsunday Business Awards 2025.
Sponsors and business champions joined the Whitsunday Regional Council, Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Bowen Chamber of Commerce to officially kick off this year’s awards season.
The event will shine a spotlight on the incredible achievements, innovation, and resilience of businesses and business leaders right across the Whitsundays.
Nominations are now open, with the excitement building for the big Sundowner Awards Ceremony coming this November.
Whitsunday Regional Council is proud to announce its partnership with the Whitsunday and Bowen Chambers of Commerce to co-present the 2025 Whitsunday Business Awards – a celebration of innovation, leadership and community spirit across our business sector.
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said this year marks a new chapter in supporting local enterprise.
“We’re proud to be strengthening our partnership with our local chambers to recognise and celebrate the people behind our thriving businesses,” Mayor Collins said.
“Whitsunday businesses are the backbone of our economy. They create jobs, attract visitors, support community initiatives and shape our region’s future.
"These awards give us a chance to applaud the hard work, resilience and passion that comes with running a business.”
The 2025 awards feature 10 diverse categories, including Small Business Hero, Customer Service Champion, Eco Excellence, and Trailblazing Young Entrepreneur. These awards acknowledge businesses of all sizes and stages, from rising stars and young innovators to long-standing community champions and industry leaders.
Jo Shepherd, President of the Bowen Chamber of Commerce, said, “Whitsunday Business Awards are more than just recognition – they are a celebration of resilience, innovation, and community spirit."
“They offer our region a unique window into the journeys behind local success stories, shining a light on the determination, challenges, and growth that help shape our business community."
Alan Milostic, Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry President, said the “These Business Awards are an opportunity to recognise the businesses and individuals going above and beyond. We know that when we celebrate our businesses, we inspire others to grow, create jobs, and build a stronger regional economy for everyone.”
Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine has come on board as the Award’s Principal Partner, highlighting its commitment to building stronger communities through business support.
Mark Henry, Chair of Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine, said, “Local businesses are at the heart of our community — they support families, employ locals, and make the Whitsundays an even better place to live and work."
"We’re proud to partner with the 2025 Whitsunday Business Awards because celebrating business excellence is about celebrating the future of our region.”
The highlight of the awards season will be the prestigious Sundowner Awards Ceremony in November, where finalists and winners will gather with hundreds of regional leaders to celebrate excellence in business.
All local businesses, including not-for-profits, are encouraged to nominate themselves or others who have demonstrated exceptional performance, leadership, or contribution to the Whitsunday economy and community.
Mayor Collins said he encourages every business, big or small, to consider applying.
The awards have officially launched with applications closing Sunday 7 September at 11:59pm. For award guides, category details and to apply visit: https://bit.ly/whitsundayba
Dr Julia Evans (Whitsundays Chamber), Brendon Nothard (Canegrowers Proserpine), Amanda Anderson (Bendigo Community Bank), Asher Telford (SeaLink), Jo Shepherd (President, Bowen Chamber of Commerce), Emma Murphy (nbn Co) and Anthony Nobilia (Airlie Beach Executive Services) Front row: Mark Henry (Bendigo Community Bank), Julia Wheway (TAFE Queensland), Mayor Ry Collins, Jannah Baker (Scallywag Fabrications) and Allan Milostic (President, Whitsundays Chamber). Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
Jo Shepherd (President, Bowen Chamber of Commerce), Mayor Ry Colins, and Allan Milostic (President, Whitsundays Chamber). Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
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