Jason Barrett is ready to lay down some fresh moves on the dance floor! As the face behind Get Turfed Pty Ltd, he’s known for helping Mackay locals achieve their dream lawns with expert turf installation, ground preparation, soil products, irrigation, and lawn care services.

Offering a complete start-to-finish package, Jason prides himself on quality service and efficiency, backed by top equipment and trusted supplier relationships.

“We’re loyal, and we build great relationships with our suppliers,” he said.

But there’s more to Jason than turf. Raised on a cane farm in Proserpine, he spent 19 years growing pasture before a decade-long stint as a rigger in the mines. A self-proclaimed “mad sportsman” in his younger years, Jason now enjoys keeping up with his cheeky four-year-old granddaughter.

Known for his generosity and community involvement, Jason values kindness above all. Now, he’s pushing his boundaries for Dancing with Heart, with a focus on raising funds for the Mackay Hospital Foundation.

“Some of the moves are like ‘HOW,’ ‘WOW,’ ok I’ll do that – somehow… Not saying what dance moves or style – you’ll just have to come watch!”

He’s keeping his performance under wraps, urging the community to dig deep and join in for the big reveal.

“Once the crowd hears the song, it's game on – and they’ll be expecting a huge performance from me. To see my dance and costume is worth the cost of the evening alone.

“Plus, you’ll get to see eight other dancers perform, enjoy a beautiful meal, and donate to a fantastic charity.”

While he enjoys rehearsals, Jason admits fundraising has been the toughest part.

“Getting people to donate and finding new ways to inspire them has been a real challenge,” he said.

“The foundation enables us to stay close to our loved ones when we need it most. They support our healthcare workers and ensure the money stays in our community, helping you and your loved ones.”

“What's your price for healthcare to stay in your home community?”

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From gliding across roller rinks to stepping onto the dance floor, Stacey Brownsey is no stranger to combining grace with determination. Known locally for her sharp business acumen at Helloworld Travel Mt Pleasant, Stacey is now swapping travel packages for dance steps as she takes on Dancing with Heart to raise funds for the Mackay Hospital Foundation.

With a lifelong connection to the community, Stacey is proud to call Mackay home, having grown up on a cane farm in Eton before becoming the owner of Helloworld Travel Mt Pleasant in 2013.

“Being a small business owner in a regional community is really rewarding,” Stacey said.

“Dancing with Heart gives me the chance to give back to the region that has given me so much.”

Beyond her business, Stacey’s heart for her community shines through her volunteer work with the Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce and involvement in a parent engagement program at her son’s school.

However, before she was known for curating dream holidays, Stacey was a star on wheels, familiarly renowned as an Artistic Roller Skater who proudly represented Australia nine times on the world stage from the late 1980s to the early 2000s.

“In my youth, I was frequently featured in local newspapers for my achievements in Artistic Roller Skating - a sport best described as ballroom dancing on wheels,” she recalls.

Stacey now hopes the same precision and poise from her skating days will guide her as she finds her rhythm on the dance floor with coach Dolly.

“My lessons with Dolly have been an absolute joy! She has a wonderful way of making me feel relaxed and comfortable,” Stacey says.

While ballet elements have brought a fun challenge, footwork remains the toughest hurdle.

“The biggest challenge is reminding myself that I’m an amateur dancer - it doesn’t have to be perfect!”

However, what matters most to Stacey is the cause behind it all.

“We never know when we or someone we love may need medical care,” she says.

“That’s why it’s so important for our community to come together in support for the Mackay Hospital Foundation.”

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U3A (University of the Third Age) exists to provide a fun and inclusive community delivering lifestyle and learning activities to enrich the lives of seniors no longer working full-time. It is a worldwide organisation promoting learning for personal enjoyment and satisfaction, offering seniors the opportunity to explore new interests and share knowledge and skills.

The U3A movement began in Toulouse, France, in 1973 and quickly spread across Europe. It then reached Britain in 1981, and Australia established its first U3A in Melbourne in 1984.

Today, U3A continues to connect seniors to lifelong learning opportunities globally, especially in Mackay.

A successful luncheon was held on Wednesday, February 5, to recognise the invaluable work undertaken by the convenors of U3A Mackay groups.

Courses Coordinator Iris Harvey welcomed the convenors and provided an opportunity to discuss updates and plans for the 2025 calendar.

A highlight of the event was the recognition of three long-serving members who have contributed to the organisation for more than 20 years. Hector Keioskie, Dawn Keioskie, and Marlene May were awarded Life Memberships of U3A and presented with certificates and badges by President Muriel.

A representative from U3A Mackay said, “Congratulations to Hector, Dawn, and Marlene, and thank you to all who attended.”

Looking ahead, those of interest are encouraged to attend the 2025 Sarina Information Day, on Friday, February 21, from 11am to 3pm at the Sarina Bowls Club, 1 Patroyce Ct, Sarina.

What: 2025 Sarina Information Day

When: Friday, February 21, 11 am to 3 pm

Where: Sarina Bowls Club, 1 Patroyce Ct, Sarina

Caption: U3A Mackay celebrated its convenors and awarded life memberships to three long-serving members at a special luncheon. Photos supplied

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The Just Saying Project Women’s Awards 2025 will be held on Saturday 29 March and celebrates the magic makers in the Greater Whitsunday Region.

There are six categories, nominees were picked by the public and the event is an amazing fun filled night showcasing women in the community.

The Keynote Storyteller this year is Jane Tara, author of the hit book ‘Tilda is Visible’.

Jane has published over a hundred children’s books, several plays, a few YA and romance novels too. She is a prolific writer with a passion for storytelling. Jane is a dedicated daily meditator and proud rescue mut advocate, she’s also a front-row cheerleader for her two sons.

Jane spent thirteen years traveling the world, living in five different countries, before settling in Sydney, where she now calls home.

On the night Jane will be speaking and celebrating women in the region that not only create magic in their communities, homes, and businesses, but are also beacons of light who bring joy, strength and passion.

Tiffany Grace, who was a previous finalist in the Rising Star category at The Just Saying Program Women’s Awards, will performing on the night.

Tiffany’s music blends country charm with pop energy and a rock edge. Her songwriting is heartfelt and relatable, she resonates with audiences and radio stations worldwide.

Her incredible performances have led her to perform at major festivals, including the 2024 Tamworth Country Music Festival and Springfest 2024.

With a powerful voice and dynamic performances, she’s certainly turning heads.

THIS YEARS’ NOMINEES

Magic Muse Nominees:

Arekahanara King

Tammy Laval

Tegan Philpott

Nell Thomsett

Tammie Cunningham

Sarah Brown

Ally Blines

Megan Warrener

Kaley-Jade Baker

Karen Jacobson

Alaina Earl

Demi Linden

Abby -Jane Walsh

Tonia Beckmann

Leisa Persson

Anna Dutton

Autumn Skuthorpe

Dr Anne Butcher

Kirsty Head

Mother of All Mothers Nominees:

Terri’lee Sharpe

Amanda Potter

Courtney Simpson

Nicole McDonell

Lisa Versaci

Mindy Keys

Hayley Matschoss

Samantha Munt

Amanda Katsadoros

Briel Dorr

Nikki Bounden

Maree Sturdy

Tracey Camilleri

Robyn Agius

Javion Woods -Whetstone

Vivien Hanrahan

Kirsten Sanfilippo

Health and Wellbeing Warrior Nominees:

Courtney Mahler

Amanda Potter

Sari Jurczyluk

Lauren Heitman

Krystal Ballagh

Deb Rae

Stacey Raymond

Dr Ritu Rana

Lisa Thompson

Dawn Deakin

Josie Middleton

Wendy Steindl

Tegan Lakimo

Mel Bailey

Kimberly Bailey

Lisa Neilson

Rebecca Cooper

Nakia Watters

Dr Elissa Hatherly

Danielle Hancock

Lauren Dillion

Dr Laura Thompson

Dr Dee Middendorp Hacking

Laura Lombardozzi

Fi Southwell

Charlotte Heller

Jody Walker

Resilient Rebel Nominees:

Lauren Heitman

Judy Porter

Antoinette du Toit

Anne-Maree Tranter

Amanda Wright

Tracey Victor

Susan Martin

Mariejan Bigby

Tyla Baldock

Bianca Dixon

Jody Euler

Dr Suzanne Francisco

Tegan Philpott

Barb Hill

Lauren Dillon

Casey Kelland

Josie Middleton

Kristen Finlay

Gemma Taylor

Jenna Lee

Rising Star Nominees:

Arhamah Haider

Hannah McNamara

Jorja Jurczyluk

Charlotte Heller

Ava Peppin

Lila Munt

Nikki Nagin

The Equaliser Nominees:

Dylan Lattimore

Kyle O’Keeffe

Marty Strecker

Rod Francisco

Andew Obst

Patrick McKenna

Caption: The Just Saying Project Award Nominees at the 2024 event

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Artificial intelligence is transforming the tech world, however, could it help save the Great Barrier Reef?

Australian researchers are developing a global real-time monitoring system to protect coral reefs from climate change and bleaching, which has affected 75% of reefs in the past two years.

The Great Barrier Reef has been devastated by bleaching since 2016, worsened by starfish outbreaks and coastal development.

Led by the University of South Australia (UniSA), the project uses remote sensing, AI, and GIS to monitor and reduce damage. A central platform will consolidate data for real-time global monitoring.

Dr. Abdullahi Chowdhury, lead researcher at UniSA, explains that the model will integrate all factors affecting coral reefs, providing real-time predictions for environmental scientists.

“At the moment we have separate models that analyse substantial data on reef health – including bleaching levels, disease incidence, juvenile coral density and reef fish abundance – but these data sets are not integrated, and they exist in silos,” Dr Chowdhury says.

“Consequently, it is challenging to see the ‘big picture’ of reef health or to conduct large scale, real-time analyses.”

The researchers say an integrated system will track bleaching severity and trends over time; monitor crown-of-thorns starfish populations and predation risks; detect disease outbreaks and juvenile coral levels; and assess reef fish abundance, diversity, length, and biomass.

“By centralising all this data in real time, we can generate predictive models that will help conservation efforts, enabling earlier intervention,” according to Central Queensland University PhD candidate Musfera Jahan, a GIS data expert.

The technology will bring together datasets from organisations like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI), the Hawaii Undersea Research Laboratory (HURL) and Australia’s CSIRO.

“The future of coral reef conservation lies at the intersection of technology and collaboration. This research provides a roadmap for harnessing these technologies to ensure the survival of coral reefs for generations to come,” the researchers say.

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Each year, hundreds across Australia participate in Clean Up Australia Day, and Coral Sea Marina is inviting the Whitsundays community to join their regional clean-up.

In partnership with the Tangaroa Blue Foundation and ReefClean program, volunteers help protect the region’s waters and coastline by collecting litter from land, islands, or waterways. Tangaroa Blue sorts and records the debris, contributing valuable data to the Australian Marine Debris Initiative for marine protection efforts.

“For the last few years we have coordinated a Clean-Up Australia event, firstly to engage the community to seek simple ways they can positively contribute to protecting the marine environment, but also to show our support for this important national initiative,” explains Joscelyn O’Keefe, Head of Marketing and Business Development at Coral Sea Marina.

More than 22 million Aussies have participated in Clean Up Australia Day activities in the last three decades and as Australia’s waste challenges continue to grow, there is an increasing need to step up and support solutions.

With attendance at last year’s event of around 60 people, the marina is hoping to attract a crowd of at least 100 to this year’s event.

Ms O’Keefe continues, “The engagement we have had in the past, particularly from those with young families, is incredibly encouraging.”

“Last year we collected over 100kg of litter which was successfully removed.”

Following the clean-up, volunteers will have the opportunity to learn more about the impact of marine debris from the team at Tangaroa Blue and how to take ongoing action to protect the oceans.

For more information on the event or to register your interest visit the Coral Sea Academy website: coralseaacademy.com

What: Clean Up Australia Day

When: Sunday 2nd March, 8am

Where: Meeting Point D, Coral Sea Marina

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A swag of moorings and reef protection marker buoys now dot the reefs of the Whitsunday Islands, making boating easier and safer as well as protecting the corals from anchor damage. But it hasn’t always been this way.

Back in the bad old days, circa 1980-1990, boating and diving around the Whitsundays was pretty basic. When visiting a reef, the idea was to get right on top of the reef, drop an anchor (on the coral!) and hop in the water. No swimming required as you were already over the reef.

But as the popularity of boating and diving in the Whitsundays increased, anchor damage to local reefs increased. It is amazing how much damage a single anchor can do to a coral reef. It is not just the anchor hitting the coral, it is the anchor and chain dragging through the coral as the boat swings and the tide changes. It was devastating.

Around 1990, dive operators finally recognised the extent of the damage as their divers could actually see the smashed coral. The alarm was sounded and the reef management agencies alerted. Unfortunately, little was done.

Local politicians were notified but showed little interest.

It is now 1994, coral is still being smashed and the community is tired of waiting for the government to step up. Divers and boat crews pulled together and formed a community group, appropriately named the OUCH Volunteers (Order of Underwater Coral Heroes). After all, what does a coral say when an anchor is dropped on it? OUCH!

OUCH’s first project was to video an anchor dragging through coral and send it to the ABC 7:30 Report.

After the video was aired on national television, the government could not do enough.

The Reef Protection Program was launched by Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service and the OUCH Volunteers, resulting in the installation of reef protection marker buoys and moorings throughout the Whitsundays, significantly reducing anchor damage to the coral reefs.

This program has spread across the Great Barrier Reef as well as overseas. But it all started right here in the Whitsundays. And don’t worry. The OUCH Volunteers are still working hard to protect the Great Barrier Reef.

Contributed by Tony Fontes, Volunteer for OUCH.

Caption 1: Volunteers with their OUCH marker buoy

Caption 2: The OUCH volunteers

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Hi Everyone!

It’s week three and we have some interesting environmental questions in this week's Ruth 2 Reef. I really enjoy questions that go outside the box and challenge your way of thinking.

In other news! As we have had such a great response to this feature...I have the exciting update that Ruth 2 Reef will be carrying on, on a weekly basis! so please keep sending in your environmental stories to ruth@lifepublishinggroup.com, as I would love to have them featured.

This week, I had the incredible opportunity to assist with a count and sort at Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc. It was such a rewarding morning, connecting with new people and making a positive impact on the environment.

Eco Barge is an amazing community organisation with so many ways to get involved. If you're looking for a way to give back, come join me and the other volunteers for a count and sort.

I hope you’ll enjoy delving into the Whitsundays Environmental happenings this week.

Ruth

"The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it” - Robert Swan.

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Did you know that there is a much greater chance of being killed by a cow than by a shark? About 5 times greater.

It's time to change the “Jaws” narrative and properly value sharks for their amazing contributions to the health of our Great Barrier Reef.

Sharks are vital to ocean health—without them, marine ecosystems can collapse.

Many sharks are top predators. Because of this important role, their loss can have ripple effects through the food chain that throw the entire reef ecosystems off kilter.

When shark presence is reduced, an increase in smaller predators that prey on herbivorous fish is seen. The result? Without enough herbivorous fish feasting on algae, it can quickly grow out of control and take over the reef, eventually reducing biodiversity and diminishing the reef’s resilience to threats like as storms and coral bleaching.

The sad reality is that sharks now need our help to carry on performing their vital ecosystem services.

Sharks are declining at a staggering rate. More than one third of shark species are currently threatened with extinction. There are 71% percent fewer sharks in the open ocean today than there were 50 years ago.

Humans are the main culprit, killing an estimated 100 million sharks every year by overfishing. We are also destroying their habitat, particularly in coastal areas. This massive loss of sharks is harming the underwater ecosystems that rely so heavily on them.

All the threats sharks face are amplified by the fact that most sharks are slow to mature and have babies. We are fishing out many species faster than they can reproduce.  

Having more sharks around to perform their critical ecosystem functions keeps our reefs healthy. That means efforts to conserve sharks benefit more than just the sharks themselves; they help the entire reef.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Conservation Council

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Ready to level up your recycling game?

The Whitsunday Regional Council has secured over $100,000 in funding to boost recycling efforts, thanks to the Queensland Government's Let's Get it Sorted Partnership Program.

This grant is part of a statewide initiative empowering 26 councils to improve household recycling habits and drive environmental change.

Mayor Ry Collins sees it as a crucial step in tackling regional recycling challenges.

“We live in one of the most environmentally diverse and delicate regions in the world, and in order to protect our local ecosystem, everyone needs to be playing their part in our war on waste,” he said.

“Our 2023 bin audit demonstrated that across the region, there is a 30% rate of contamination in our recycling bins, with the biggest issues being soft plastics and bagged recycling being placed into our yellow recycling bins.

“The campaign will focus on reducing this percentage, and another audit will take place at the end of the campaign to see how we are tracking as a region.

“By rallying the community together to make the correct choices when sorting their waste, we can make a real difference together.”

Coordinator Waste and Recycling, Clinton Shand, emphasised the importance of communicating the core recycling messages in order for the campaign to have maximum effect.

“We have chosen to focus our messaging on the dos and don’ts of recycling to get back to the basics of sorting waste correctly within our community,” he said.

“By starting from scratch, we can hope to bust some recycling and waste myths.”

The campaign will take a soft launch this February.

“Residents will also have the option to opt in to receive a ‘recycling top tips’ fridge magnet by visiting the Let’s Get it Sorted page on Council’s website,” added Mr Shand.

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Get ready for a high-energy, dazzling, and unforgettable tribute to two of the biggest names in music! The Australian Pink Show is proud to present Pink Vs Gaga, the ultimate Rock versus Pop showdown featuring two of the most iconic female artists of our time. This spectacular event will bring down the funhouse this March 1st and 2nd at Airlie Beach Hotel’s Pub, with both shows kicking off at 2pm.

Combining the fierce, high-octane rock energy of P!nk with the flamboyant, theatrical pop perfection of Lady Gaga, Pink Vs Gaga is a 2.5-hour electric celebration of music, fashion, and women throwing it down. Both artists have captivated millions with their chart-topping hits and iconic stage presence, and now you can experience the music battle live at this mad tribute show.

P!nk has earned her place as a global rock sensation, with countless top 10 singles, sold-out tours, and a reputation for high-energy performances that leave audiences breathless. Known for her powerful voice and fearless attitude, P!nk’s music has become anthems of self-empowerment, making her one of the most popular and dazzling stars in international music.

Lady Gaga, reigns supreme as a Queen of Pop, with over 27 million albums sold and 146 million singles to her name, Gaga's influence on pop culture is undeniable. From her iconic fashion choices to her record-breaking hits, Gaga's performances are known for their jaw-dropping spectacle and emotional depth. With her fearless approach to music and art, Gaga has solidified her place as one of the most influential and innovative artists of our generation.

Show runner Kim Boath has been bringing the show to Airlie for 7 years and said “We just love it. We love the party atmosphere, the just the whole thing, and we look forward to it every year.”

Pink Vs Gaga is more than just a tribute show, it's an experience! With fab, iconic costume changes, stunning performances, and electrifying renditions of the most beloved hits from both artists, you’ll be dancing and singing along from start to finish. Expect to ‘Raise Your Glass’ and ‘Marry the Night’ as these two incredible performers take you on an unforgettable musical journey.

Book your tables now for Pink Vs Gaga at Airlie Beach Hotel for two fantastically free shows over the weekend. Enjoy these dazzling stars with a spectacular band and a talented cast led by Kim, this is a tribute show that promises to be a truly magical experience. So, gather your friends, bring your energy, and get ready to be blown away by the ultimate rock and pop showdown here: thepubairliebeach.com.au

WHAT: P!nk Vs Lady Gaga Ultimate Tribute Showdown

WHEN: 1st & 2nd of March, 2pm-5:30pm

WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel

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The Zonta Club of Whitsunday invites you to a fun-filled celebration of International Women’s Day on Sunday the 9th of March for their big 25th International Women’s Day celebration at the Coral Sea Marina Resort. Gather your friends, colleagues, and family, and create your own table of joy for an exciting day of festivities.

Tables of 10 or 8 are available, so rally your group of closest gal-pals and get ready for a memorable experience. This event will feature a range of fantastic prizes, including exclusive island holidays and incredible packaged prizes. These make perfect group getaways for your cozy syndicate, so don’t miss out on the chance to win big!

Enjoy an inspiring speech from our guest speaker, plus raffles, auctions, and a wonderful supportive atmosphere. It’s also a great opportunity to dress up with your most dazzling sparkles and shine, and indulge in a fantastic day out as the dress code is BLING!

Make sure to book your tickets early and spread the word to your friends, family, and colleagues. We can’t wait to celebrate with you on this special day to honor women worldwide.

Tickets are available online at: https://tickets.whitsundaytickets.com.au search ‘Zonta’

WHAT: Zonta’s 25th International Women’s Day celebration

WHEN: Sunday, 9th March 11:30 am

WHERE: Coral Sea Marina

COST: $95pp

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Mark your calendars for May 2025, as Proserpine prepares to host a vibrant new festival honouring its unique wildlife and artistic community. The inaugural Proserpine Rock Wallaby Festival promises an immersive experience celebrating the endangered Proserpine Rock Wallaby, while fostering creativity, culture, and community spirit.

The festival will kick off with an Art Prize Exhibition at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, running over four days. This showcase will highlight the artistic brilliance of local creatives, reflecting the region's rich cultural tapestry. On Sunday, May 11th, the Handmade Art Markets will feature one-of-a-kind treasures crafted by skilled artisans. This is your chance to find unique pieces while supporting local craftspeople. There will be music and family fun activities for all ages.

Visitors will be delighted by a town-wide art installation, including 72 vibrantly painted Rock Wallaby silhouettes created by the Proserpine Men’s Shed and painted by Proserpine High School students. These artistic cutouts will be placed throughout the town, infusing every corner with colour and character. Adding a magical touch, a 1.5-meter illuminated Rock Wallaby lantern by installation artist Lalune Croker will light up the festival, providing a striking centrepiece.

Adventure-seekers can participate in a Rock Wallaby Treasure Hunt, discovering beautifully painted 3D sculptures hidden across Proserpine. Along the way, participants will learn about this remarkable species and its habitat. For those keen on conservation, gain invaluable insights into the Proserpine Rock Wallaby and the broader importance of preserving the region’s natural environment. And for those seeking something a little more delicious, a special Mother’s Day morning tea will be held in the Centre on the 11th, along with some prizes for those who really wish to indulge.

The Proserpine Rock Wallaby Festival is a festival for all and promises to be a highlight of 2025, uniting the community through a shared appreciation for art, culture, and nature. Whether you’re an art lover, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique experience, this festival will offer something for everyone. As Proserpine readies itself to celebrate its iconic rock wallabies, the town invites visitors from near and far to join in this unforgettable event, you can even sign up to run a market! May can’t come soon enough see more details by the QR Code!

What: Rock Wallaby Festival by Creative Connections Whitsunday

When: 8th – 11th May

Where: Proserpine Entertainment Centre

https://www.creativeconnectionswhitsunday.com/future-events/proserpine-rock-wallaby-festival

Nestled in the heart of Proserpine, Little Vintage Cafe offers more than just delicious food—it’s a place where heart and community come together. Owner Jo’s passion for both great hospitality and giving back shines through in every aspect of the cafe. Beyond serving mouthwatering meals, Jo visits Uganda regularly, working to improve lives by contributing to medical and dental aid, among other services. Dining at Little Vintage Cafe means you’re not just enjoying a fantastic meal—you’re directly supporting this vital work.

With a focus on local produce, Little Vintage serves up dishes crafted mostly from scratch, ensuring every bite is fresh and full of flavour. Their famous naughty muffins are a crowd favourite, with locals and visitors alike coming back for more. Whether you’re after a hearty breakfast or a light lunch, the cafe’s warm atmosphere and friendly service make it a must-visit spot.

As well as the regular mid-week hours, Little Vintage Cafe is also open on weekends, both Saturday and Sunday, from 7 am to 1 pm! It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy a delicious meal while knowing you’re contributing to a good cause. So next time you’re in Proserpine, make sure you stop by and experience the charm of Little Vintage Cafe, right next to Drake’s supermarket.

Contributed by Jade Yvonne, Business Development Executive, Tourism Whitsundays

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Last week, I attended International Media Marketplace (IMM) in Sydney.  Hosted by TravMedia, IMM is one of the biggest media events in the travel industry, bringing together journalists, editors, and influencers to connect with destinations like The Whitsundays.

It was a busy but exciting day, with 22 back-to-back meetings with media professionals who help tell the stories that inspire travellers to visit The Whitsundays, so it was a great opportunity to share everything that makes The Whitsundays so special. There was plenty of interest in our region, from new experiences to island getaways, water activities and mainland adventures. I’m looking forward to seeing The Whitsundays featured in upcoming stories and inspiring more people to visit.

In the same week, Ben attended AIME in Melbourne, where The Whitsundays was showcased as a premier business events destination. Over the course of the event, Ben had 31 meetings with event planners, corporate buyers, and industry professionals, focusing on securing future business events in The Whitsundays.

Conversations highlighted the diverse range of venues, accommodations, and experiences available in the region and the types of events that could be hosted. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with excitement that The Whitsundays was back in the business events space with strong interest in what’s new and upcoming.

Contributed by Rosanagh Gallivan, PR & Social Media Executive, Tourism Whitsundays

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