Whitsunday Business Awards To Celebrate Local Innovation And Excellence

The Whitsunday business community will come together next month to celebrate innovation, leadership, and community spirit at the 2025 Whitsunday Business Awards, recognising 70 outstanding nominees across ten award categories.

Delivered in partnership between Whitsunday Regional Council, the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Bowen Chamber of Commerce, the Awards shine a spotlight on the people and enterprises driving growth across the region.

This year’s event is proudly supported by Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine as Principal Partner, highlighting its commitment to building stronger, more connected communities through business support.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the Whitsundays’ business sector continues to set a benchmark for regional excellence, innovation, and resilience.

“The Whitsundays has always been a place where local businesses punch well above their weight by combining creativity, community pride and the kind of tropical spirit that keeps people coming back,” Mayor Collins said.

“From Bowen to Collinsville, and from Proserpine to Airlie Beach, our business community is the beating heart of our economy.”

Alan Milostic, President of the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said “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. We look forward to celebrating everyone at the event in November.”

Jo Shepherd from the Bowen Chamber of Commerce said the 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. Congratulations to all nominees.”

2025 Whitsunday Business Awards – Nominees

Best of the Whitsundays: Business of the Year

For an outstanding business that sets the gold standard for excellence, innovation and leadership in the region.

• Airlie Beach Hotel
• Airlie Beach Tourism
• Birds Fish Bar
• Mana Skin Body & Soul
• Maroona Gardens
• Ocean Rafting
• Whitsunday Life Newspaper

Business Leader of the Year

Recognising an inspiring leader whose vision, dedication and influence have driven exceptional business and regional success.

• Garry Matthias, Corrsafe Enterprises
• Jenny Rush, Aquatic Rush
• Kellee Fogg, Whitsunday Law
• Robert Congo, Yooribaya Cultural Experience

Rising Star: Employee, Apprentice or Trainee

Highlighting an exceptional individual who has demonstrated outstanding growth, dedication and contribution.

• Aaron Murphy, Down to Earth Whitsundays
• Allen Bauer, Bird’s Fish Bar
• Billy Hinchcliffe, Pilchers Mitre 10 Bowen
• Jessica March-Peach, Women’s Well Co
• Orry Ferguson, Airlie Beach Hotel
• Shontelle Betzel, Bowen Rail Company

Small Business Hero

Recognising sole traders and small businesses that make a big impact through ambition, innovation and resilience.

• Above and Below Gallery
• Airlie Health Hub
• Ambitious Cakes
• Ceremonies by Georgina
• Edge Dance Studio Whitsunday
• Mumabuba
• Oceanic Tales
• Option Insurance Brokers
• Party Cakes Whitsunday
• Principle Movements
• Queen of Clothing
• The Answer is Yes
• Tim Warren Auto Airconditioning & Electrical
• Yooribaya Cultural Experiences

Customer Service Champion

Celebrating businesses and individuals who consistently go above and beyond to create unforgettable customer experiences.

• Airlie Beach Executive Services
• Hogs Breath Cafe Airlie Beach
• Bowen Tourism and Business
• Katrina Williams, Garden Shack Whitsundays
• Magnums Accommodation Airlie Beach
• Mana Skin Body & Soul
• Mariah Dean, Frangipani Cleaning Services
• Peninsula Airlie Beach
• Tamarra Robson, Bowen Meals on Wheels
• Whitsunday Sailing Outrigger

Regional Game Changer

Recognising businesses that fuel economic growth, innovation and community prosperity across the region.

• Bowen Gumlu Growers Association
• Corrsafe Enterprises
• Shiift
• Tin Lid Enterprises
• Whitsunday Life Newspaper
• Whitsundays Property Buyers

Trailblazing Young Entrepreneur

Celebrating rising stars (under 25) who are redefining success in start-ups, leadership or industry innovation.

• Fayith Mitchell, Photography for You
• Mariah Dean, Frangipani Cleaning Services
• Sam Vanderpoel, Rolling with Netherpoel

Community Champion

Highlighting businesses making a real difference in the Whitsunday community through meaningful contributions and initiatives.

• Abbot Point Operations, Community Support Program
• Bowen Community Op Shop
• Bowen Meals on Wheels
• Bowen Old People's Home Society
• Bowen Tourism and Business
• Club Whitsunday
• Creative Connections Whitsunday
• Tassal
• Tin Lid Enterprises
• Whitsunday Housing Co Ltd

Eco Excellence

Showcasing businesses that are leading the way in sustainability, environmental responsibility and green innovation.

• Airlie Health Hub
• Bubble Soap Co
• Coral Sea Marina
• Pilchers Recycling
• Whitsunday Segway Tours
• Zero Waste Solutions

Business Legends of the Whitsundays: Hall of Fame

Celebrating businesses or individuals that have achieved long-term success and made an enduring impact.

• Abbot Point Operations
• Magnums Accommodation Airlie Beach
• Nathan Fleming, Airlie Beach Tourism and Ocean Rafting
• Tim Warren Auto Airconditioning & Electrical

‍

WHAT: Whitsunday Business Awards
WHERE: Proserpine Entertainment Centre
WHEN: Friday 21 November (5.30pm - 8.30pm)
Tickets: Available via Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry website

‍