Since 2005, local services in the Whitsundays have partnered with the Whitsunday Neighborhood Centre to nominate families and individuals in need of extra support during the holiday season. The Adopt a Family initiative then creates an anonymous list of these nominees for the community to adopt.
Adopting a family simply means donating a gift card—of any value—to help brighten their Christmas. It's not about hosting individuals but offering a thoughtful contribution to those in need.
It could range from a reef trip to a $50 voucher for Woolworths, no donation is too big or small.
While the old ‘Adopt a Family’ process consisted of creating hampers, Executive Officer at the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, Rebecca Woods, mentioned how gift vouchers became the preferred option:
“For a lot of people, when they're in these circumstances, they have very little control their situations, so to actually have some control over their Christmas and how they want to celebrate can be extremely empowering for them.
“It is also very hard for someone to buy a hamper of gifts for a person or family who they don’t know very well.”
Rebecca shared that all donations are needed by December 10th to allow the nominated families ample time to prepare for Christmas, helping to ease some of the stress associated with the holiday season.
Given the ongoing cost-of-living challenges, receiving a donated gift can be especially meaningful for families in need, particularly during the financially demanding Christmas period.
"We have such a generous community," Rebecca said.
"Everyone really rallies together at Christmas to support those who are struggling."
If you’d like to help, make Christmas a little brighter for a local family, visit the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre's Facebook page for more information on how to adopt a family this holiday season.

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Adopt a family this Christmas!

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Mackay Hospital Foundation is on the look-out for Whitsunday residents wanting to volunteer their time as drivers for the Whitsunday Patient Transfer vehicle.

The service has been operational since early 2023 and has been an incredible support for Whitsunday region patients who need to travel to Mackay for appointments and treatment. Currently operating three days each week – Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, five wonderful volunteers have been driving the transfer service on these days since its inception and with an increase in volunteers, this vital service has the potential to increase to 5 days per week.

With the capability of transporting eight patients on each trip, the bus departs Cannonvale on the three dedicated days, with collection points at Proserpine and BP Bloomsbury. The patient transfer service is available to patients who have appointments booked through the public health system and require transport to Mackay to meet their medical commitments.

Volunteer Support Officer Jackie Meldrum said, “If you live in the Whitsunday region, with a current ‘C’ Class Drivers Licence, and you’re willing to donate your time, I’d love to hear from you”.

Whether we have one patient or a full vehicle of eight patients, the service has been incredibly valuable for people in the Whitsundays.

The Whitsunday Patient Transfer service is an initiative of Mackay Hospital Foundation, and if this is something that interests you, please contact Jackie Meldrum on 4885 7590 (work), 0487 760 029 (mobile) or email Jacqueline.Meldrum@health.qld.gov.au.

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The Patient Transfer Service

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We are developing a new Corporate Plan 2025–2030, our primary strategic document that sets the high-level direction, focus areas, and key projects for the next five years. The draft plan can be viewed on our Online Engagement Portal, Yoursay Whitsunday, where you can provide your feedback to shape our future across the plan’s five themes: Our Economy, Community, Environment, Infrastructure, and Our Council.
Consultation closes 18 December – don’t miss your chance to have your say!

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Originally founded as a nursery over 30 years ago, Garden Shack Whitsundays has grown into a leading garden centre, inspired by the vision of local entrepreneur, Robert Brodhurst of Narellan Pools Whitsundays and Down to Earth Whitsundays, to be able to offer a one stop shop for all your landscaping needs to bring backyard dreams to life!
Garden Shack Whitsundays is an independent business that offers various plants and products for every gardening need. In addition to their extensive selection, they provide consultations at your home to arrange the ideal plant package tailored to your space.
The knowledgeable staff at Garden Shack can assist you in choosing the perfect plants for your garden, whether it's a sun-soaked spot or a shaded retreat. With expert advice, they will help bring your garden vision to life.
Garden Shack offer a wide variety of plants, including, but not limited to tropical species, native plants, and groundcovers, all carefully selected locally to suit the unique landscape of the Whitsundays. With many homes in the region built on sloping blocks, Garden Shack specialises in plants that thrive on retaining walls, providing options that cascade and trail down.
If you're in the market for larger plants but are concerned about getting them home, Garden Shack offers a convenient home delivery service.
“We have trucks that can handle bulk deliveries, and we also provide a courtesy trailer for transporting plants and bulk yard supplies,” explained Garden Shack’s all-rounder Kat Williams.
Kat shared that their best-seller is the Dypsis cabadae, a striking blue cane palm.
Garden Shack is expanding its range to become your one-stop shop for all landscaping needs, with new offerings including a bulk supply yard, with soils, mulch, rocks and more, garden furniture, sculptures, and pavers.
In addition to gardening essentials, the shop now also covers all your pool needs, with The Pool Shop Whitsundays located right under the same roof! Also, there is even a kids nature playground and kids' veggie garden to play in while the parents explore the nursery  
For everything garden and pool, visit the Garden Shack Whitsundays today!

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Manager Maree Mullet with All-Rounders Kat Williams and Kate Harbison

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Mates helping mates is Our Whitsunday Way so last week I launched the annual Mayor’s Festive Food Appeal to assist families in need across the Whitsundays this festive season.
 
In a year marked by challenges, the appeal offers our community an opportunity to come together in the spirit of giving, ensuring no one in our region goes without a special meal this Christmas.
 
Christmas is a time for family, generosity, and compassion and the Festive Food Appeal is our way of making sure that everyone, regardless of circumstance, has the chance to celebrate and enjoy a meal together.
 
How to Get Involved in the Festive Food Appeal:
 
Donate Food – The Council encourages residents to drop off non-perishable food items from the Christmas food box shopping list at any Customer Service Centre or Library across the Whitsundays. Visit the shopping list at WRC Festive Food Appeal for suggested items.
 
Donate Money – Those who wish to contribute but have limited time can make a meaningful impact by purchasing a Festive Food Box online through the Council website.
 
Spread the Word – Help the Whitsundays community by sharing news of the Festive Food Appeal with family, friends, and neighbours. Together, we can ensure no family is left behind this holiday season.
 
All donations are needed by Monday, 9 December to give Council’s Christmas Elves time to pack and prepare the boxes for distribution.
 
I thank everyone in advance for your generous donations which embody the true spirit of our Whitsunday community. Together, we are making a meaningful difference in the lives of our neighbours, ensuring that no one is left behind this Christmas.
 
Thank you for your support and kindness.

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Employers and employees need to start planning how their businesses will operate during the end-of-year holiday season.

Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry member and employee relations expert, Mark Lipkin from Airlie Group, suggests the following to prepare:

   • Determine any shut down or changed hours now and plan your roster. Ensure you consult as early as practically feasible with your workforce on the roster ahead of time.
   • Understand the rules and processes relating to employees who continue to work during shut down or directing employees to take reasonable annual leave.
   • Get across penalty rates and requirements for working on public holidays, and entitlements if public holidays fall during shut down or requested annual leave.

Also, there are new rules about casual employment. These include changes to how casual work is defined, new pathways to permanent employment, and employee and employer responsibilities.

Mark recommends these strategies for Christmas casuals:

   • Ensure your offer of employment is consistent with the new definition of casual employee and issue the new Casual Employment Information Statement in addition to the Fair Work Information Statement.
   • Review all existing casual employees to ensure the current employment is consistent or inconsistent with the legislation, in particular review how your engagement of existing casuals looks from a "practical" perspective and ask the question whether an alternative form of employment (permanent, part- or fixed term) could work equally well.

Airlie Group is offering Chamber members a free of charge initial consultation on employee and industrial relations matters, resulting in structured general advice. Contact Mark today to learn more on mark@airliegroup.com.au

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Employee Relations Expert, Mark Lipkin from Airlie Group. Photo supplied

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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 researching how to incorporate it into their teaching.
Sergeant Stephen Smith, presenting the product at PCYC, noted that young drivers' attitudes toward road safety only change dramatically after experiencing road trauma themselves or losing someone to it.
Tamara and Jaime created the initiative to use 360 technologies to simulate a scenario where young people make poor driving decisions in social settings, showing a range of outcomes, including unpleasant and tragic ones.
Sergeant Stephen Smith, states that since using the headsets they have seen a dramatic change in attitudes:
"Everything we've observed so far influences their attitudes, expressions, body language, and the way they engage with us in the classroom."
“Suddenly they are invested in the rest of the class.
“There's no other police district in Queensland that has these.”
“To our knowledge, there's also no other police district in Australia who uses them.”
There are currently 10 headsets available in the Whitsundays, with plans to acquire 20 more soon.
While the initiative targets young people, Sergeant Stephen Smith notes it’s not limited to them, as discussions with older generations have also been successful.
“It's easy to convince people here that road safety matters, but we're working towards making that mindset constant,” added Sergeant Smith.

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Sergeant Stephen Smith with the new VR headsets. Photo Credit: Ruth Puddefoot.
Individuals testing out the headsets. Photo supplied.

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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, critiques from customers, and the occasional inner voice of doubt. Yet, they keep going.
   • Innovate Under Pressure: Creativity thrives when the mind is free, but the demands of financial stability often make it hard to break new ground. Despite the challenges, business owners continue to search for new opportunities and niches to serve their community.
   • Ride the Financial Rollercoaster: The peaks and valleys of revenue are part of the journey, but business owners persevere. They pay employees, cover bills, support community needs and pay themselves last, shouldering the stresses and risks for the team.
   • Juggle Work and Rest: Scheduling a rare weekend off can be a triumph. Faced with unexpected absences, staff shortages, or last-minute crises, they continue to step in, showing unmatched commitment to their businesses and those they employ.
   • Deliver Great Service with Pride: From the smallest details to the grandest offerings, they strive to do their best daily. Faced with the occasional less-than-stellar reviews, they take feedback as fuel for improvement.
   • Balance Compliance with Passion: Navigating regulations, compliance, and paperwork often overshadows the passion that started it all. Yet, they find ways to reignite their purpose, reconnecting with what drives them.
   • Build and Nurture Their Teams: They invest wholeheartedly in growing and nurturing skilled, talented teams. While the market may shift and competitors may lure talent away, they keep turning up, and keep building.
 

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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 Bowen State High School for a “wonderful day,”:
“Thank you, Bowen State High School, for walking for a kinder world today. We appreciate you being involved in our kindness initiatives. It looked like a fantastic inclusive school event.”
Billie was an extraordinary young girl from the Whitsundays, whose life was tragically cut short in a horse-riding accident.
Billie had a remarkable gift for giving—through her warm smile, thoughtfulness, acts of kindness, and her inspiring words. The Be Kinder Foundation was created in her memory to carry on her legacy, organising events to spread kindness and make the world a better place, just as Billie did.

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Megan and Mel from b kinder with Bowen State School Principal, Rob Harris. Photo supplied

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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 row.
BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort will now head to the Australian Tourism Awards in Adelaide in March 2025, where the team will also be vying for Australian Hall of Fame after winning the past two years in the same category on a national level.
BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort also scooped a second gold award for ‘Excellence in Accessible Tourism’, an honour bestowed for the team’s extensive work and offerings catering to the accessible and inclusive market.
CEO Phil Casey, who attended the event with some of his management team, reflected on the accolades and what they mean.
“Taking home gold for the third consecutive year and acknowledging us in the prestigious Hall of Fame for the ‘Caravan and Holiday Park' award, makes this award all the more special for our owners and the team. To top it off, winning gold in the ‘Excellence in Accessible Tourism’ category for the second year in a row was also such an honour, reflecting the hard work our team has done in this area,” said Mr Casey.
Aligning with 2023 and 2024 as The Year of Accessible Tourism in Queensland, the Queensland Government has supported industry in recognising the importance of accessible tourism experiences for all, regardless of their physical limitations, accessible needs or age, to better cater to visitors of all abilities and provide greater destination experiences for all holidaymakers in Queensland.
“We are extremely grateful to those in the industry who have supported us in leading the way in accessible tourism and this is something that we will continue to incorporate, using universal design in future development projects, of which there are a few already in the planning stages,” said Mr Casey.
Mr Casey also acknowledged the resort’s owners of 31 years, the McKinnon family, and their team of 85 passionate staff.
“These awards are not only a testament to the hard work of our team, but also our owners, the McKinnon family, and their dedication to our guest experience in creating a Queensland holiday destination of choice. They always support our many initiatives and continue to reinvest and develop our wonderful resort.”
“We must also say a big congratulations to all the other winners and entrants on the night, particularly our Whitsundays friends at Ocean Rafting and Pinnacles Airlie Beach who also came home with gold. Last, but most certainly not least, we extend a huge thank you to all our guests, who choose us as their holiday destination of choice. These awards are always a testament to their support,” said Phil.
The resort, which is located in Airlie Beach has easy access to the Great Barrier Reef, Whitehaven Beach, the Whitsunday Islands and a vast array of trips, water activities and truly memorable Australian holiday adventures. For more information visit www.adventurewhitsunday.com.au

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Phil Casey, Tiffany Brett, Andrea Mearns, Tanya Cran. Photo supplied
Phil Casey and Tanya Cran accepting the award

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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 minded. They faced many hardships but always maintained their positivity about the future of this district. They were humble about their achievements and sought no accolades.

How it all began …

George and Thelma Porter arrived in Proserpine from Auguthella in 1949 with children, Bob (8) and Helene (Lane) (5). They purchased a newsagency/jewellery business in the early 50s and lived in the residence above the business in Main Street. The children attended St Catherine’s school then went to Brisbane for their secondary education - Bob attended Nudgee College and Lane went to Lourdes Hill.

The Porters were the first travel agents in the district, becoming agents for Queensland Tourist Bureau and they also continued with TAA as part of their business. Proserpine Airport had opened in 1951 and a daily DC3 operated between Brisbane and Proserpine. Porters’ Travel drove the success of the inaugural flights into the Whitsunday region.  

Bob Porter embraces and expands the family business …

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When Bob finished school in year 10, he started working in the family business, Porters’ Travel. Then, when his uncle, Doug Robinson, went overseas for twelve months, Bob moved to Brisbane to manage his uncle’s jewellery business in Edward Street. There he became interested in gemmology and studied to achieve the appropriate qualifications in Australia and Britain and then, after two years, he went to America to obtain the equivalent American qualification which allowed him to work in that country for a few months. Bob became one of Australia’s most highly qualified gem experts at the time.
Before returning home, Bob travelled through England and Europe and returned full of enthusiasm and ideas as to how to improve the family business. By this time, his sister, Lane, was also working in the business, having joined upon leaving school.
Bob’s interest in the travel and jewellery aspects of the business resulted in its diversification such that the jewellery and travel businesses were shifted into a new shop in Deicke’s Arcade in the main street of Proserpine in 1967 and the newsagency was sold. George and Thelma had owned that business for twenty years, working long hours, seven days a week from 8am to 9pm and closing only for Christmas Day and Good Friday.

The Porter family was very involved in the port at Shute Harbour. In the late 1950s, George was part of a group of 39 interested people who walked the track through rainforest from Airlie Beach to Shute Harbour. It was a familiarisation trek to gain firsthand information for a probable road and to inspect the harbour. Cyclone Connie (1959) was the catalyst for the construction of the road to Shute Harbour; a safe harbour accessible in all weather conditions. George Porter was instrumental in establishing this road which became a reality in 1961.

It was after the construction of the road that the Porters obtained the first lease in Shute Harbour and subsequently built the first kiosk there in 1967. They organised day trips, island bookings and sold clothing and souvenirs. Some locals believed that Bob was wasting the family’s money by initiating this move. Builder, Harry Muller told Thelma, “You know, Thelma, people will never come to Shute Harbour,” but he was proven wrong. The “Australasian Post” (December 26 1985) reported, “Shute Harbour is Australia’s second busiest port, close behind Sydney.” Bob was clearly a man of foresight.

In 1968, TAA purchased the Whitsunday Airport. Small feeder planes operated from the Shute Harbour Airport and connected with larger planes in Mackay and Townsville. The Porter family were active in the management and the operation of the Whitsunday Airport in conjunction with their kiosk at Shute Harbour.
Perhaps the turning point for tourism in the Whitsundays was in 1970 when Bob spearheaded the construction of the very first tourist resort on the mainland, Whitsunday Village, where Magnums is now situated. This multi-million dollar resort was built in less than a decade and was the first do-it-yourself holiday apartment accommodation in the Queensland travel industry.  This was followed in 1982 by the construction of the Whitsunday Terraces; a five terraced building of 62 units. Bob was involved in many other projects including Wanderers Paradise Resort.
An original member of the advisory committee for the Queensland Tourist Corporation, Bob constantly met travel agents from around the world. He was instrumental in arranging the first P&O cruise ship to call at the Whitsundays and anchoring at CID Harbour and he then arranged for local tourist operators to take boat guests on day trips to the outer reef and local islands.
Bob Porter was tenacious in all matters of tourism. Thanks to his dogged persistence, Proserpine is known as the Gateway to the Whitsundays – not Mackay, as tourism organisations in that town had tried to assert.  
Bob was always up for a new challenge. He recognised that only 4% of international visitors came to the Whitsundays and set the promotional ball rolling to attract travellers from the growing American market. In a novel idea, he fitted out a 17 metre yacht, a former pearling lugger built in 1901, as a floating advertisement for all of Queensland and began voyaging down the coast to Sydney and Melbourne marketing and promoting all of our tourist resorts.
Such a busy man and yet he still had time for fun! Bob and his friend, Allan Southwood, instigated the first ever Whitsunday Fun Race in Airlie Beach which was the precursor for the boat races run in the Whitsundays today. One day, Bob and Allan were sailing in the Whitsundays on their respective vessels – Bob’s old pearling lugger called “Dahlia” and Alan’s boat called the “Torres Herald”. They decided that they would race back to Airlie Beach and the loser would give the winner a bottle of rum. And so, the Whitsunday Fun Race was born; a race which is now quite possibly one of the largest annual events in the Whitsundays and a great drawcard for the area.

As time went by, the family divested itself of its business interests in the area. Bob eventually moved to Brisbane in the mid to late 70s however he continued promoting the Whitsundays and operating his travel business.
When Bob Porter passed away in November 2007, Queensland tourism lost a man of vision and one of its most passionate Whitsunday supporters.
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The Porter Legacy …

Bob Porter and parents, George and Thelma, made a significant economic and charitable contribution to the Whitsundays. The legacy left by the Porter family is something that we all enjoy today – a world-class tourist destination that is Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays; a destination far removed from the Airlie Beach of the 50s and 60s when it was merely a collection of modest weekend “shacks”.
Since first being honoured in 2013, through Tourism Whitsundays’ annual presentation of The Bob Porter Award for Outstanding Contribution by an Individual, the man with the distinctive head of curly hair and charismatic smile continues to be acknowledged for his remarkable contribution to tourism and development in the Whitsundays.

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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 Local Tourism Organisation won Gold in the same category at the Whitsunday Tourism Awards and were inducted into the Hall of Fame after winning the category three years in a row.

Chair of Bowen Tourism and Business, Jenn Honnery said to be recognised at State level was a fantastic achievement and a result of hard work and dedication by the entire team.

“To have Bowen recognised at this level confirms that we operate one of the best Visitor Information Centres in the State,” she said.

The Bowen Visitor Information Centre attracted almost 52,000 visitors over the past financial year, equating to an estimated average of 150 people per day.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said the team was always striving to improve their services.

“We are always looking for new ideas and have just welcomed four new members to our committee - they are sure to bring fresh ideas, and we are looking forward to another exciting year ahead.”

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Mel Collins, Bowen Tourism and Business Manager Leanne Abernethy, Mayor Ry Collins, Bowen Visitor Services Co-Ordinator Glenn Womal and Bowen Tourism and Business Chair Jenn Honnery.

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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 feel very humble because the people that have gone before me and won this award have contributed enormously to our industry and our state…so it’s very humbling to actually receive that same recognition."

A powerhouse woman in the industry, Hackett has acquired multiple hats throughout her career, currently standing as the Executive Chair of AATG and Proponent of the Whitsunday Skyway Project Airlie Beach,  and the Chair of Judges for the Queensland Tourism Awards.  Elizabeth also sits on the Board of Tourism Whitsudays.

Among these well-respected positions, she also owned Magnums Accommodation Airlie Beach, previously known as Magnums Backpackers, which has now transitioned into a highly awarded 3.5-star unique accommodation, suitable for 18+ travellers.                    

Looking back to the beginning, and reflecting on her current achievements, Ms Hackett said she was “born into the industry,” and after spending three decades in Airlie Beach, it has shown her “what a great conduit that tourism can be.”

“Tourism can be a great conduit for doing good work in the community, whether it’s working with first nations tourism, environmental tourism, or focusing on customer service,” she shared.

“The Whitsunday Skyway Project is an infrastructure tourism initiative set to bring over $30 million annually to the region.

"This project would not have happened without our local member, Amanda Camm, and our new Premier David Crisafulli, they have an enormous amount of credit to take for this project,” she said.

The Skyway will not only drive economic growth but will also serve as a lasting legacy for the Whitsundays, which Elizabeth Hackett hopes to contribute to throughout her career.

“Our entire tourism family want to leave a legacy and make a difference,” she added.

"Certainly, in my region, but also throughout the state.

“If I can play a tiny part in ensuring that the generations - both current and future - actually get to know a little bit more about our first nations people, how we can protect our environment, and the Great Barrier Reef, then I will be very happy if that can be my contribution.”

She added, “I'm just very humble to actually have this role in tourism and it's just wonderful to be a part of this tourism family.”

Although Ms Hackett humorously notes that she has no spare time, she cherishes the moments that she does have with her adorable chihuahua, named “Little Phyllis.”

Elizabeth Hackett’s legacy in tourism is one of dedication and impact, ignited by her passion to ensure that the tourism sector continues to thrive, benefiting not just the economy, but also the people and environment that makes the Whitsundays such a dearly loved location.

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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.

The Whitsundays Shines Bright
And Brings Home 16 Awards

Hosted at The Star, Queens Wharf, in Brisbane on Friday, 15th November, the awards recognised the outstanding achievements of tourism operators across Queensland and reaffirmed The Whitsundays’ position at the forefront of the state's tourism industry. The Whitsundays region was well represented, with a number of local operators nominated across various categories, including accommodation, tours, transport, and unique experiences.
Tim Booth, CEO, Tourism Whitsundays commended the region’s strong representation, praising the passion, resilience, and innovation shown by local tourism operators.
“The Whitsundays remains one of the world’s most sought-after destinations, and these awards are a testament to the dedication and passion of our tourism operators. A heartfelt congratulations to each and every entrant — your hard work and commitment to excellence is what makes our region so special.
“The fact that we are seeing success despite ongoing global challenges is a credit to the resilience and innovation of our industry. We are incredibly proud of all those who make up our thriving tourism sector, and we’re excited for what lies ahead as we continue to build on our reputation as a leading tourism destination.”
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins expressed immense pride in the region’s accolades at the 2024 Queensland Tourism Awards.
“Tourism is the heartbeat of the Whitsundays, and these awards are a testament to the resilience and passion of our tourism operators.
“To ensure the Whitsundays continues to shine as a world-class destination Council has a strong focus on collaborating with Tourism Whitsundays and local tourism operators to foster a vibrant and sustainable tourism industry for our region,” he said.

2024 Whitsundays Winners Gold Awards
   • Ocean Rafting (Major Tour and Transport Operators)
   • BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort (Caravan and Holiday Parks)
   • Pinnacles, Airlie Beach (Self-Contained Accommodation)
   • BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort (Excellence in Accessible Tourism)
Silver Awards
   • Shute Harbour Marine Terminal (Tourism Retail, Hire and Services)
   • Red Cat Adventures (Major Tour and Transport Operators)
   • Iconic Whitsunday (Tour and Transport Operators)
   • Cruise Whitsundays (Unique accommodation)
   • Camp Island Lodge (Self-Contained Accommodation)
   • Airlie Beach Cruise Ship Ambassadors (Outstanding Contribution by a Volunteer or Volunteer Group)
Bronze Awards
   • Whitsunday Coast Airport (Tourism Retail, Hire and Services)
   • Bowen Visitor Information Centre (Visitor Information Services)
   • Ocean Rafting (Adventure Tourism)
   • The Boathouse Apartments (4-4.5 Star Deluxe Accommodation)
   • InterContinental Hayman Island Resort (5 Star Luxury Accommodation)
   • Eastwoods Dining (New Tourism Business)

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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 effort we put into crafting unique and memorable guest experiences. For our team, it’s a validation of the care we pour into our operations daily, from hosting guests on the elegant Lady Enid to thrilling them with adventures on Viper,” Nicole explained.
Nicole stated how being recognised at a state level is both exhilarating and motivating. Affirming that their efforts not only resonate locally but also stand out amongst Queensland’s vast and diverse tourism offerings.
“This award positions us as leaders in the industry, reinforcing trust and confidence in our brand for visitors planning their Whitsunday adventures.
“It also elevates our visibility, inspiring us to reach even greater heights while continuing to support our local community and economy.”
In the coming years, Iconic’s focus is on growth and sustainability, aiming to expand their offerings, further integrate cultural storytelling into their tours, and adopt innovative practices to reduce their environmental footprint.
“Innovation is at the core of what we do,” Jeremy emphasised.
“Whether it’s through developing tours like our Viper experience which is the only tour that is able to do the Outer Great Barrier Reef and Whitehaven in one day, enhancing guest services, or investing in eco-friendly technologies, we remain dedicated to staying ahead of industry trends while showcasing the natural beauty of the Whitsundays.”
Iconic Whitsunday Adventures has a big emphasis on authentic, high-quality experiences and maintains that this is what sets them apart from the rest.
From the elegance of Lady Enid to the adrenaline-pumping adventures on Viper, Iconic offer something truly unique.
“Our team’s passion, coupled with our deep connection to the Whitsundays, ensures every guest leaves with unforgettable memories,” Nicole added.
“Stay true to your vision, focus on quality, and always prioritise your guests’ experience.”
“Collaborate with your local community, embrace sustainability, and be open to learning and adapting.
“Success is built on passion, persistence, and a willingness to innovate.”
Iconic Whitsunday Adventures is a premier tourism operator based in Airlie Beach, offering world-class experiences by land and sea. With a commitment to sustainability, and unparalleled service, the company proudly showcases the beauty and heritage of the Whitsundays.

https://iconicwhitsunday.com.au/

Nicole and Jeremy Graham with their award

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