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 the highly competitive 5-star accommodation category, is an incredible honour” explained InterContinental Hayman Great Barrier Reef General Manager Kayte Staraj.

“Having our hard work and dedication recognised by industry peers and experts feels amazing, and the award is a testament to the level of service, quality and guest experience we strive to deliver daily.”

InterContinental Hayman Great Barrier Reef was awarded Bronze at the Queensland Tourism Awards held last week, a title believed to not only perfectly reflect the commitment and dedication of each team member, but also act as a source of motivation to continue raising the bar and enhancing the guest experience further.

“At a state level, the recognition means that our commitment to excellence is being noticed beyond our local community and that the experiences we offer resonates on a much broader scale,” added Kayte Staraj.

InterContinental Hayman Great Barrier Reef prides itself on its unique position and role as the gateway to one of the world’s greatest natural wonders, welcoming guests by helicopter or boat to their romantic sanctuary of luxury and adventure.

Collectively, the team believes this award, paired with their additional long list of commendable achievements, will further enhance their credibility and boost the resort’s reputation to attract new guests seeking high quality, and reputable luxury accommodation they can trust.

“What sets our business apart in this highly competitive industry is our 75-year history of excellence and deep-rooted commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences.

Over the decades, we've built a strong reputation for quality, trust, and personalised service, becoming a cornerstone of Queensland's tourism landscape, and our longevity reflects our ability to adapt to changing trends while maintaining the core values of hospitality that have stood the test of time.”

The resort noted the award not only captures their internal dedication and commitment, but also stands as a reflection of Queensland’s vibrant tourism industry, a sector InterContinental Hayman Great Barrier Reef is proud to continue contributing to. In looking ahead, the resort plans to implement further tourism innovations across various sectors in the interest of enhancing guest experiences through personalised services and technological advancements whilst prioritising sustainability and eco-friendly practices.

“Our business goals are to continually enhance the guest experience, maintaining our reputation as a leading 5-star accommodation provider,” Kayte Staraj said.

“Ultimately, our goal is to be recognised as a top destination in Queensland, consistently delivering exceptional and memorable experiences for every guest.”

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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 and office manager Jasmin.

"We're still proudly owned and operated, with three generations actively involved in the business,” said Nate.

“With 28 years of operation, we have had the pleasure of welcoming over 2.5 million visitors to explore the Whitsundays by boat or plane and showcase one of Australia's top destinations."

Jasmin added that "It was an exciting night for the Whitsundays, with many of our region's operators getting comfortable on the podium.

“The Whitsundays should be extremely proud of the unforgettable experiences they offer that showcase our backyard."

Kerr also extended a “big” thank you to all involved and said she proudly looks “forward to future operations.”

Ocean Rafting offers two exhilarating day tour adventures, the Northern Exposure and Southern Lights, featuring an adventurous ride to Whitehaven Beach, exclusive access to Hill Inlet and unique snorkelling sites. Other experiences on offer include the Fly and Raft package, 60-minute scenic flights, a range of adventure packages, charter options and the Reef Seeker environmental educational program.

For more information phone 07 4946 6848 or visit www.oceanrafting.com.au.

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Jasmin, Kerr Claxton and Nate Fleming from Ocean Rafting. Photo supplied

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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 won gold, especially in consideration of the fierce competition:

“The calibre of all Queensland entrants is always exceptional. We are up against the best of the best in Queensland and we are very humbled to have been awarded Gold,” Therese enthused.

For what Pinnacles have achieved so far, they believe they are ‘right on track’ and will continue to excel in the areas where they are already performing exceptionally well.

Therese explained how they are always continually trying to improve their guest’s experience and “reinvent the wheel to provide exceptional customer service,” alongside updating their facilities and services offered.

Pinnacles are grateful for the awards process:

“You learn so much from the awards process about your business. It forces you to look at all aspects from customer service, business practices, sustainability and marketing.”

Congratulations Pinnacles on an exceptional win!
pinnaclesairliebeach.com.au

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Brent Jones, Therese Moran, Susan Watson, Lee Irvin with their award

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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 award reflects Red Cat Adventures’ continued dedication to providing exceptional guest experiences through its world-class eco-tours and experiences to iconic Whitsunday destinations including the Great Barrier Reef, Whitehaven Beach and Airlie Beach.
SeaLink Whitsundays General Manager, Asher Telford said, “We are thrilled to be recognised again at this year’s Queensland Tourism Awards.
“This achievement is a testament to the continued pride, passion and commitment of our Red Cat Adventures team, who work tirelessly to ensure every guest enjoys a world-class experience.
“Awards and recognition like these are important as they give visitors to the region the confidence that when they hop onboard any one of our experiences, they know they we will do everything possible to ensure they have a brilliant time,” Mr Telford said.
“As a proud member of Queensland’s tourism industry, we congratulate all the winners and nominees who make our state such a remarkable destination to visit for all travellers to Australia and the region.”
SeaLink Whitsundays, Red Cat Adventures and Whitsundays Jetski Tours all also proudly boast Ecotourism Australia’s Advanced ECO Certification, highlighting a dedication to sustainable practices and authentic nature-based tourism experiences.
For more information on SeaLink Whitsundays’ experiences, visit:
sealink.com.au
redcatadventures.com.au
jetskitour.com.au

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Dan Gabbert, Nate Linnell, Charlotte Linnell, Julie Telford and Asher Telford. Photo supplied.

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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 unwavering dedication to excellence.
"There are two key reasons why the Whitsundays is an iconic tourism destination: we live in paradise and the incredible commitment of our businesses to delivering exceptional experiences," Mayor Collins said.
“The Whitsundays’ presence shone brightly throughout the evening and huge congratulations to BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort, Ocean Rafting, and Pinnacles Airlie Beach for their gold awards, while several other local businesses secured silver and bronze awards.
“A special highlight was the recognition of Elizabeth Hackett, who received the opening award of the night for her immense contributions to the tourism industry.”
Mayor Collins extended his heartfelt congratulations to all the winners and finalists.
"The achievements of our region at this year’s Queensland Tourism Awards are a reflection of the passion and dedication of our tourism operators.
“Together, we continue to elevate the Whitsundays as a world-class tourism destination."
Council’s Director Commercial Businesses Craig Turner said the Whitsunday Coast Airport and Shute Harbour Marine Terminal remain pivotal gateways to this paradise, showcasing their commitment to innovation and service excellence.
"We are incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished and will continue working with our tourism partners to ensure the Whitsundays remains a leader in the industry," Turner said.
“Being recognised on a state level is a great achievement and acknowledgment for the hard work and efforts of the hard-working teams at Whitsunday Coast Airport and Shute Harbour Marine Terminal.
“I am confident the awards success and recognition of Council owned assets perfectly captures our continued dedication and commitment to keeping various facilities within the region to a high standard to maximise the experiences of visitors.
“Recognition at a state level will ensure both the Whitsunday Coast Airport and Shute Harbour areas at the forefront of traveller’s minds when visiting the Whitsundays,” Turner said.
In late October, the Whitsunday Coast Airport was awarded Gold in the Tourism Retail, Hire and Services category at the Whitsunday Tourism Awards, the third consecutive win for the establishment in a row, further earning the facility an honourable place in the Hall of Fame.
The Whitsunday Coast Airport is recognised as “the gateway funnel to drive the economy for the Whitsundays”, offering amazing connectivity with direct flights to Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Cairns and the new Adelaide route.
Council’s Manager Aviation, Tourism and Marine Shaun Cawood said the revitalised Shute Harbour Marine Terminal is also the kicking goals and this season Shute Harbour will host 25 cruise visits, up from 19 last year, with a total guest capacity of 66,834 (excluding crew).
“In addition to Celebrity and Royal Caribbean, the terminal will welcome new lines this year, including Silversea, Viking, and Norwegian. Here's to another incredible season,” he said
“To deliver exceptional facilities for visitors, we will continue working closely with our airline and cruise line partners to develop new flight routes, and increase capacity across marine visitation.”
Having the final word Mayor Collins said “the tourism industry is very competitive in our beautiful region, and we all need to work hard, and work together towards the common goal of providing the best experiences to all visitors.”

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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 Mitchell and Hannah Moore.

Swimming, Cross Country and Athletics Age Champions received their medals and certificates whilst NQ representatives received their half blue and full blue towels.

Sturt Crocodiles were crowned the 2024 Champion House and Vice and House Captains for 2025 were also announced.

Mr Harris and Belinda Farley (first sportswomen of the Year in 1996) presented the sportsman and sportswomen awards to:

Junior: Alexis Howell and Charlie Williams 
Senior: Remi Hedges and Jacob Logan

Special Awards were awarded to: 
Terry Wake Memorial: Lincoln Thicker 
Keith Shiels Memorial: Alyssa Hardy
Paul Le Bherz Memorial: Casey Forrester
Herb Murray Cup: Staff 

Principal Rob Harris expressed his thanks to sponsors and donors that contributed throughout the year with uniforms, equipment and travel.

“We appreciate your ongoing support and thank you also to our P&C for supporting events like these to acknowledge our students,” said Principal Rob Harris.
 
“Bowen High is proud of the commitment of all students and staff who contributed to this year’s sporting calendar. 

“We look forward to another successful year of sport in 2025.”

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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 graduates for a delicious morning tea, lovingly prepared by Mrs. Trickett and the Hospitality students. A special thank you was extended to Mrs. Fisher for the stunning graduation cake, which added an extra touch of celebration to the event.

The farewell concluded with a touching tradition as the Year 12 students walked out of the school gates for the final time. Drums played, and students and staff lined the path, clapping and waving to send the graduates off with well-wishes.

Congratulations to Collinsville State High School’s graduating class of 2024!

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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.

Secondary Awards Ceremony, was held later that evening, where students were celebrated for Excellence in Effort, academics, sports, and the arts as the hard work of the students was highlighted, with each award reflecting their commitment and perseverance throughout the year.

Congratulations to all the award recipients for their remarkable achievements! Whitsunday Christian College looks forward to 2025, continuing to cultivate excellence.

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Photo credit: Ruth Puddefoot and supplied

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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 to celebrate 13 years of schooling.

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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 the entire St. Catherine's student body, they attended a special liturgy and rang the bell for the final time,” they shared.

“Your dedication to your studies and the St. Catherine's community has shone through on your journey with us and we are extremely proud of all that you have achieved. Congratulations to all the graduates and enjoy your next chapter!”

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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. With the regular meets a success, three years ago, Hellier began planning for something bigger to ignite enthusiasts’ calendars each year.
“Three years ago, I wondered if we could put on a charity bike show made up of local rider’s bikes, and I got talking to Beccah from Magnums Hotel,” explained Hellier.
“This show is the third one we’ve run, and we had 25 bikes this time around, and the quality of machines just keeps getting better and more varied, from vintage bikes to high performance sports bikes, and custom shoppers, there’s something for everyone.”
A cause close to Hellier’s heart, the annual show raises much needed funds and awareness in support of The Children’s Hospital Christmas Appeal, an initiative working to provide children with the gift of a healthier and brighter future.
“My youngest son has ongoing treatment, and it’s really just that as a parent it’s a struggle at the best of times having a kid in hospital at any time of the year, but Christmas is the hardest as it’s supposed to be a time where families come together after all.”
The 2024 Airlie Beach Bike Nights’ Annual Bike Show raised an outstanding total of $2,000 from the event alone, with an additional $13,000 having been raised over the past two months.
“Each and every member of the Airle Beach Bike Nights community has had a hand in the show in some way – whether its words of encouragement, or people volunteering their time and their labour to make it happen, and I’m certain we can make the next one biggest and better!”

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Beccah Cook from Magnums Hotel and Hellier Mason, organiser of the Airlie Beach Bike Nights’ Annual Bike Show. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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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 his foster home and is now eager to give and receive love. There’s not a mean bone in his body—he’s a gentle, submissive dog with other pups.
While he hasn’t been tested with cats or chickens, Timmy is great with kids of all ages. He’ll need a home with 6ft fences, ideally with someone who’s home often, and another dog to keep him company. He also enjoys daily walks to help burn off his energy.
Timmy is looking for a loving, active family who can provide the care and attention he deserves as he continues to thrive.
Please call Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue on 0459 757 455 or send a message to their Facebook page if you would like to give Timmy the home he deserves.

Name: TimmyBreed: Greyhound X Arab

Sex: Male
Age: 20 months
Size: Medium approx. 22kg
Adoption fee: $400
Vaccinations: Fully vetted. Desexed. Microchipped and Vaccinated.
Fences: 6ft

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As we continue to immerse ourselves in festive spirit, there’s no better way to spread joy than by coming together to support and give to those in need across the Whitsundays. It should come as no surprise that the Whitsundays are one of the most kind-hearted and generous communities along the Queensland coastline, and in keeping with this wonderful title, various Christmas Appeal initiatives have begun sprouting up across the shire as we edge closer and closer to December.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor, Ry Collins’ Festive Food Appeal stands as an accessible, and affordable, way for the local community to support those who often go without by providing families with a festive meal this Christmas. A simple way to spread joy, the appeal exists with the sole intent of ensuring everyone within the community can celebrate the festive season together. Donations of non-perishable food items off the Christmas food box shopping list can be made at one of the Whitsunday Regional Council’s Customer Service Centres or Libraries.

What’s included in this Christmas box shopping list you ask?
   • Christmas Pudding
   • Bon Bons
   • Tinned fruit, jelly and custard powder
   • Juice (2L)
   • Rice and simmer sauce
   • Pancake mix
   • Tinned veggies, baked beans and tinned spaghetti 
   • Deb potatoes
   • Spaghettti pasta and pasta sauce
   • Instant noodles
   • Weetbix
   • Cordial
   • Longlife milk
   • Vegemite

Although making a small donation off the Christmas box shopping list can make a world of a difference in someone’s life, the Whitsunday Shire Council asks for the community to simply spread the word of the appeal with friends, family and neighbours to make sure no one goes without this Christmas.

In order to make sure the Council’s Christmas Elves have enough time to pack the Festive Food Boxes, all donations are to be made by Monday 9 December. More information of this heartwarming initiative can be found on the Whitsunday Shire Council website.

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Mayor Ry Collins’ Festive Food Appeal stands as an accessible and easy way to give to those in need this Christmas. Photo supplied

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Women in the community are invited to a special ‘Christmas Cocktails for a Cause’ event, due to be held at the Garden Bar from 12.30-5pm on Friday, December 6.

This ladies-only event will raise money for charity, with all proceeds supporting the fight against domestic violence.

The event includes an opportunity to meet the ‘Dancing CEOs’ a group of local leaders who will be dancing all the way to Brisbane City Hall next May for the cause.

Guests at ‘Christmas Cocktails for a Cause’ will enjoy a fabulous selection of shared platters and canapes alongside a complimentary welcome drink, complete with live music and dancing, courtesy of ‘Josiah.’

The four 'Dancing CEOs' were chosen for their altruism and commitment to community impact.
When Coral Sea Marina CEO Kate Purdie was approached in 2021 to donate a prize for the Women’s Legal Service Queensland (WLSQ) ‘Jet Raffle,’ she was moved to tears by a video about the organization’s work.
“While I’ve been fortunate enough to never experience domestic or family violence myself, I could relate to the woman in the video,” she said.

“My late husband was diagnosed with terminal cancer when I was 36 years old.”

“I know what it is like to be in a situation where you have no control over what is happening to you and your family.”
In 2024, accepting the invitation to join WLSQ's flagship fundraising ‘Dancing CEOs’ was an easy decision for Kate.
“There are things in life that simply cannot be stopped, and terminal cancer is one of them, but domestic violence is not.” Ms Purdie said.

“If, by doing this, I can help even just one mum from ever feeling the way I did, I will.”

Joining Ms Purdie in making that difference are fellow ‘Team Whitsundays’ Dancing CEOs Candice Crossley (Whitsunday Transit), Alice Harriott (Whitsunday Family Dental), Julie Telford (SeaLink Whitsundays), and their mentor, three-time former Dancing CEO and WLSQ Ambassador, Katelyn Aslett-Collins (Taste Whitsundays).

For Candice Crossley, the motivation is “giving back”.

“Particularly to women and children, with whom as a former teacher, and part of a company which transports 2,000 children to school each day, I have a deep affinity – made even more poignant by knowing that of all the women experiencing domestic violence, 75 per cent have children in their care,” she said.

For Julie Telford it’s about women helping other women.

“I share WLSQ’s core values of care, respect, inclusivity, accountability and collaboration.

“I want us to create a safer future for women and children, where everyone can live free from violence and discrimination and where a woman can tell her story without judgement or fear,” she said.

For Alice Harriott, it’s about safeguarding the next generation.

“I am a mother of four daughters, and I pray they may never need such a service, so I am dancing – and raising awareness and funds – so that one day, no-one else has to,” Dr Harriott said.

For more information and to stay up to date with all local fundraising news, follow the ‘Team Whitsundays Dancing CEOs’ Facebook page.

Tickets to the ‘Christmas Cocktails for a Cause’ cost $99 and are available online at: mygivingtable.com.

To buy Beach Raffle tickets in advance, drop into The Fat Frog, Espresso & Bloom, Taste Whitsundays or Whitsunday Family Dental. Tickets cost $5 each, three for $10, or 10 for $20.

WHAT: Christmas Cocktails for a Cause
WHEN: Friday 6th December 12.30-5pm
WHERE: Garden Bar

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Dancing CEOs Candice Crossley, Julie Telford, Katelyn Aslett-Collins and Alice Harriott invite you to  ‘Christmas Cocktails for a Cause’. Photo credit: Sharon Smallwood.

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