Whitsunday Business Breakfast Welcomes Special Guests

On Thursday March 19^th, the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry brought together 70 local businesses to their March Business Breakfast Briefing at Club Whitsunday with Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox and State Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm. Both Willcox and Camm helped to deliver wide-ranging updates on policy, infrastructure and investment affecting the region.

The event facilitated a direct line of communication between elected representatives and the business community, covering a wide range of relevant topics.

Mr Willcox outlined a federal agenda with the goal of reducing business costs and addressing workforce shortages that affect the region.

“In my role as Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing, my priority is ensuring that Australia returns to being a self-reliant nation,” said Mr Willcox.

“In these volatile economic times, being a member of Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce is more important than ever. It serves as a vital bridge between local business owners and decision makers, offering the advocacy and support needed to navigate rising costs and supply chain instability.”

Meanwhile, Ms Camm highlighted recent progress across community safety, health, housing, infrastructure and regional development in the Whitsundays.

Crime rates have dropped by 7 per cent, which she attributes to increased police presence. A new police station in Proserpine has officially begun construction and will feature a trauma-informed design to better support responses to domestic and family violence. Additional investment in the local ambulance station has also been confirmed.

Healthcare remains a priority, with planning underway for upgrades to Proserpine Hospital and redevelopment works continuing at Mackay Base Hospital.

On housing, Ms Camm said she is working with all levels of government to boost regional housing supply through the Regional Housing Fund.

“It was wonderful to join our local business community at the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce breakfast alongside Andrew Willcox and have some really constructive conversations about the future of our region,” she said.

“These events are so important - they give our business community a real voice and ensure we’re hearing firsthand about the challenges and opportunities across the Whitsundays. From infrastructure and housing to workforce and community safety, my focus remains on delivering practical outcomes that support local businesses and strengthen our region’s future."

The Chamber welcomed the strong turnout and engagement from local business.

“This is exactly what Chamber is here to do,” said Chamber President Allan Milostic.

“To bring business and decision-makers into the same room, have real conversations about the issues that matter and make sure the voice of our business community is heard loud and clear.”

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Photo source: Facebook

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