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Making Whitsunday Roads Safer With VR

Virtual Reality (VR) is set to enhance road safety in the Whitsundays through a new police initiative aimed at educating individuals about the dangers of irresponsible driving. The VR initiative was created by Senior Constables Jaime Brooks and Tamara Cook to better engage senior students in road safety education, after struggling to maintain their interest. Determined to find a solution, Tamara explored new ways to engage students. Inspired by virtual reality, she spent two and a half years res

Ode To The Business Owner

The entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well, with statistics showing over 70% of Gen Z aspiring to be entrepreneurs or at least pursuing a side hustle. While this drive towards self-made success is inspiring, it’s important to appreciate and understand the reality of what it takes to run a business. Our Regional Business Owners: • Wake Up Every Day Ready to Lead: They rise each morning determined to put their best foot forward, striving to do better, even amidst the constructive feedback,

Bowen State High School Stepping into a Kinder World

Individuals continued to walk for a kinder world this week, and one such group of individuals who also did their bit to spread kindness was Bowen State High School. On 13th November, Bowen State High School had the opportunity to show gratitude and kindness on World Kindness Day, through a walk for kindness event which included sausage sizzles, crafts and an important meeting with Mel and Megan about next year's B Kinder initiative. Mel Turner, director and treasurer took to Facebook to thank B

Hall Of Fame For BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort

The team at BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort have many reasons to celebrate following their success at the state’s premier tourism industry gala event, the 2024 Queensland Tourism Awards, held at The Star Brisbane on Friday night. Winning two gold awards, BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort was not only awarded top honours in the ‘Caravan and Holiday Parks’ category for the seventh time at a state level, but also received the prestigious Hall of Fame for winning the same category three years in a r

BOB PORTER – A PIONEER OF TOURISM IN THE WHITSUNDAYS.

For those who can still remember the Whitsundays in the 1960s, the name “Porter” comes to mind in any discussion about the early tourist development of the area. Most people, however, are not aware of the extent of the contribution made by the Porter family to tourism and the significant role they played in placing Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays on the map as one of Australia’s leading tourist destinations. The Porters were not wealthy people. They were modest, hard-working and community min

Bronze For The Big Mango

We all know, love and treasure Bowen’s Iconic Big Mango on the Bruce Highway, and recently the Queensland Tourism Awards recognised the fantastic fruit through awarding Bowen Tourism and Business with Bronze in the Visitor Services Category. Celebrating their success, the Bowen Tourism and Business team have been riding a wave of excitement since receiving the prestigious title and adding this honour has been the cherry on top of an already spectacularly successful year. Just last month, the L

Tourism Icon Elizabeth Hackett Wins Marie Watson-Blake Award For Outstanding Contribution

Born into the tourism industry through hospitality and hotels, Elizabeth Hackett has racked up over thirty years of knowledge, as well as an unshakable passion for bettering the tourism sector, both state-wide and in her very own backyard. Her years of dedication and experience were recently acknowledged when she won the prestigious Marie Watson-Blake Award for Outstanding Contribution by an Individual at the 2024 Queensland Tourism Awards. "It was a huge surprise for me,” Ms Hackett said. “I

Tourism Industry Celebrates Huge Wins At Queensland Tourism Awards

The Whitsundays has once again demonstrated its status as a premier tourist destination, taking home 16 awards at the 2024 Queensland Tourism Awards. Among the night’s highlights, Elizabeth Hackett was honoured with the prestigious Marie Watson-Blake Award for Outstanding Contribution by an Individual. Her vision, leadership, and dedication have transformed businesses across the region, elevating The Whitsundays’ tourism sector to new heights.

An Iconic Win For The Whitsundays

Iconic Whitsunday Adventures is proud to announce its recent triumph at the Queensland Tourism Awards, taking home Silver in the Tour and Transport operator category. This prestigious recognition underscores the team’s dedication to delivering unforgettable experiences in one of Australia’s most iconic destinations. Owners, Jeremy and Nicole Graham explained how winning this award is an incredible honour and a testament to our team’s unwavering passion and hard work. “It’s a celebration of the

A Beacon of Excellence At InterContinental Hayman Great Barrier Reef

A picturesque gem nestled in the heart of the serene Great Barrier Reef, InterContinental Hayman Great Barrier Reef provides its guests with an exceptional coastal experience paired with luxurious accommodation and dining experiences. On Friday evening, the exquisite island playground was honourably celebrated with a Queensland Tourism Award in recognition of InterContinental Hayman Great Barrier Reef’s continued commitment to excellence. “Winning a Queensland Tourism Award, particularly in th

Ocean Rafting Honoured With Gold And Bronze

Ocean Rafting recently made waves at the 39th annual Queensland Tourism Awards Gala, after bringing home Gold in Major Tourism and Transport, and Bronze in Adventure Tourism. The event was hosted in Brisbane last Friday night, where individuals and businesses were recognised for their outstanding accomplishments within the state’s Tourism sector. Kerr Claxton, operations manager and youngest member of a three-generational family- business, represented the team alongside marketing expert Nathan

Pinnacles Brings Home Gold

Pinnacles, Airlie Beach won Gold for their self-contained accommodation at the prestigious 2024 Queensland Tourism Awards over the weekend. The Pinnacles team were absolutely over the moon to have won an award, and Therese Moran said it was a credit to their hard work and dedication: “The team work extremely hard to ensure that each guest visiting the Whitsundays leaves with wonderful memories and want to come back and see us time and time again.” The team were extremely grateful to have wo

Red Cat Adventures Celebrates Success

SeaLink Whitsundays’ Red Cat Adventures was proud to continue its service excellence streak being awarded Silver in the Major Tour & Transport Operator category at the 2024 Queensland Tourism Awards, hosted last Friday. The awards, organised by the Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC), celebrated the achievements of Queensland’s top tourism operators across 31 categories, from attractions and events to accommodation and cultural tourism. This year’s Major Tour & Transport Operators Silver

Council’s Airport & Marine Terminal Excels

In a spectacular evening celebrating Queensland’s tourism excellence, Whitsunday Regional Council’s Whitsunday Coast Airport and Shute Harbour Marine Terminal were proudly recognised for their outstanding contributions to the industry at the 39th annual Queensland Tourism Awards. Held on Friday, 15 November, at The Star, Queens Wharf, the event was a showcase of the state’s best and Mayor Ry Collins hailed the Whitsundays achievements as a testament to the region’s world-class offerings and unwa

30 Years Of Annual Sports Awards At Bowen State High School

Bowen State High School has celebrated its 30th Anniversary of Sports Awards showcasing the outstanding sporting achievements of students and staff in 2024. Mckenna Hall was filled with excitement as students were recognised for their participation and dedication to school, regional and state sport competitions. To mark the 30th Anniversary, video messages of support were delivered by successful Bowen High alumni including Belinda Farley (nee Smith), Robert Crowther, Corey Jensen, Elliarna Mi

Collinsville State High School Farewells Year 12 Graduates

Collinsville State High School held a memorable Graduation Ceremony on Friday, 15 November, to bid farewell to the Year 12 students after 13 years of schooling. During the ceremony, Mrs. Lawn delivered heartfelt farewell speeches to each of the graduates - Jayme, Claudia, Cooper, and Darcy - wishing them success in their future endeavours. Principal Mrs Reeves then presented each student with a Certificate of Graduation, marking this significant milestone in their lives. Families joined the

Whitsunday Christian College Students Shine At Awards Day

It was a day to remember at Whitsunday Christian College as they celebrate the hard work, growth, and achievements of their students. The Primary Awards Ceremonies, held last Wednesday, were filled with excitement, joy, and pride. Vibrant student performances showcased the talents of the younger students, filling the room with energy and enthusiasm in front of families and their peers. Beyond the performances, the ceremony honoured the academic and personal growth of the primary students. Se

Proserpine State High School 2024 Formal

Proserpine State High School 2024 Formal

Proserpine State High School Year 12 students celebrated their school Formal at Shute Harbour Marina Terminal last Tuesday 12th November. Family and friends attended the glamorous event admiring students who strutted the red-carpet during arrivals. Students then headed upstairs for an evening of dinner and dancing. The Year 12s then celebrated their Graduation Day on Friday 15th November in their school hall along with their nearest and dearest and staff. Both events were a wonderful occasion

End Of Year Celebrations For St Cath’s Year 12 Cohort

Year 12 St Catherine’s College students celebrated the end of their school journey with a series of meaningful events over the past few weeks. With their School Formal held earlier in the year, the students had other celebrations to look forward to. These included a memorable Graduation Dinner which was held at Whisper Bar and Restaurant, and a special liturgy held in their honour on the school campus. A school spokesperson shared the news; “Today, surrounded by family, friends, staff, and th

Bike Night Rolls Wheels Of Generosity

On 16 November, Airlie Beach was a buzz with Airlie Beach Bike Nights’ Annual Bike Show, attracting enthusiasts from across the sunshine state to come together in support of a fantastic cause. Spearheaded by Hellier Mason just over four years ago, the yearly gathering was initially introduced as a social event for motorcycle riders within the community to enjoy, with regular meets held on the final Friday of each month at various venues within the area attracting up to fifty riders on occasion.

Pet Of The Week Meet Track star Timmy

Gorgeous Timmy was saved from death row at the Burdekin Pound nearly two months ago and has since made incredible progress. When he first arrived at Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue, he was timid and fearful. But in his foster home, Timmy has blossomed, gaining confidence as he experiences daily meals, loving care, and plenty of attention. This playful boy loves to run full speed and has a blast playing zoomies with his foster brothers. Despite his initial anxieties, Timmy has integrated well into

What’s On November 22

November 16-22 Airlie Beach Schoolies Festival 2024 22-23 Out of this World, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7pm Friday and 11am, 6.30pm on Saturday 23 Hamilton Island Triathlon 24 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am 24 Breast and Prostate Cancer Awareness Day, Proserpine Golf Club, from 10am 29-30 Chez's House of Dance & Whitsunday Allstars Annual Concert 2024, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 11am and 6.30pm December 1 Carols

Tusk Brings Fleetwood Mac Magic To Airlie Beach

Prepare to embark on a magical, musical journey back in time to the golden era of rock as Tusk, the Storybook Tribute to Fleetwood Mac, brings their dazzling show to the Airlie Beach Hotel for two wonderful and memorable performances next weekend. Renowned for their charm, character, and class, Tusk delivers a powerful homage to the iconic band that defined a generation, and on both Saturday 30 November, and Sunday 1 December, Tusk will illuminate the Airlie Beach Hotel from 2pm with audiences s

Gig guide 22 November

Friday 22 November The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm) Grand View Hotel: Chris Webbe (4pm – 8pm) Saturday 23 November The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Late for Woodstock (2pm – 5.30pm) The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm) Grand View Hotel: Daybreak (4pm – 8pm) Coral Sea Pavilion: Live Music (from 1pm) Coral Sea Pavilion: Chill DJ Session (2pm – 6pm) Sunday 24 November The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Late for Woodstock (2pm – 5.30pm) The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: