Whitsundays “Think Big” Event Draws Strong Support For Regional Future

The event featured the region’s most influential leaders and business owners, who all came together to discuss the Whitsunday’s future. Photo supplied

‍

‍

The Whitsundays’ vision for growth, investment and opportunity took centre stage at Council’s State of the Region 2026 Think Big event, held at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on Friday 8th May.

More than 200 business, industry and community leaders attended, joined by local students and regional decision-makers for a full day of discussion focused on the future of the region. The event was emceed by Queensland Tourism Industry Council CEO Natassia Wheeler and hosted by Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins, who said the strong attendance reflected growing confidence and ambition across the community.

‍

“The Whitsundays is in a strong position, and what we saw in the room was a genuine appetite to think big about where we’re heading,” Mayor Collins said. “From economic growth and investment to major infrastructure and Brisbane 2032 opportunities, there is real momentum building across our region.”

‍

The program featured a series of panel discussions bringing together leaders from sport, government, tourism and industry. Among the key speakers was Dominique Lamb, Director of Community Affairs for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, alongside Olympic and Paralympic representatives and elite athletes who shared insights on high performance, resilience and long-term opportunity.

‍

Local Members of Parliament Minister Amanda Camm MP and Minister Dale Last MP also attended, contributing to discussions around regional investment, workforce development and the infrastructure required to support continued growth.

A major focus of the day was the opportunity presented by the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, with particular emphasis on tourism demand, supply chain participation, procurement pathways and workforce readiness. Council’s long-term vision to position the Whitsundays as the “Home of Olympic Sailing” was also highlighted as a potential legacy-defining opportunity for the region.

‍

Following the main sessions, almost 100 students from Whitsunday schools participated in a dedicated youth workshop and panel discussion with Olympic athletes. Students engaged directly with speakers on topics including goal setting, resilience, and how young people can help shape the future of the region.

Mayor Collins said the student session was a standout moment of the day.

‍

“Bringing young people into these conversations is essential. Their ideas, combined with the lived experience of elite athletes, show that ambition and opportunity start right here in the Whitsundays,” he said.

‍

Council said the State of the Region 2026 event forms part of its ongoing commitment to economic development, collaboration and strategic planning, ensuring the Whitsundays continues to grow with confidence, purpose and a shared vision for the future.

‍