At the recent Futurist State of the Region event hosted by the Whitsundays Regional Council, key leaders and forward-thinking businesses gathered to discuss the exciting future of the region. The event’s presentation featured speeches by Mayor Ry Collins, Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP, and an amazing guest keynote speaker, Anders Sörman-Nilsson, a global futurist and innovation strategist.
Mayor Collins’ speech reflected the past and future of the Whitsundays; highlighted the region’s rapid growth, particularly in Airlie Beach and Cannonvale, which is now one of the fastest-growing areas in regional Queensland. With the largest population increase, along with booming tourism, the region is on a clear path to prosperity.
Mayor Collins distinctly pointed out that 1 in 4 workers employed in the tourism sector demonstrated the region’s appeal to both national and international travellers. The Whitsundays infrastructure is being developed to meet this growing demand especially in short-term accommodation, a housing sector that has boomed post-Cyclone Debbie. Mayor Collins also emphasised that the council and region is extremely excited as a whole with the recent announcement about the hosting opportunity of the upcoming 2032 Olympic Games.
Amanda Camm was the next to speak and focused on tangible improvements for Queenslanders, including a local committee to address the much-needed upgrades to the Bruce Highway and making sure the upgrades go where they are needed most. Amanda also championed grassroots funding for young athletes and emphasised the region’s commitment to ecotourism, educational growth, and housing development to keep pace with the current tourism expansion and demands.
The morning wrapped up with guest keynote speaker Anders Sörman-Nilsson, who provided a thought-provoking look at the future of business, urging local companies to embrace emerging technologies like AI and robotics. He painted an intriguing picture where mundane tasks are automated, freeing human minds to pursue more creative and fulfilling endeavours. Ander’s insights were a reminder that science fiction is rapidly becoming science fact, and the future of work will be shaped by how we adapt to these innovations. Especially directing his points to small businesses who need to think smarter and embrace the opportunities rising technologies can afford them.
Photo credit: Victoria Velton.
Anders Sörman-Nilsson and Mayor Ry Collins
Mayor Ry Collins, Amanda Camm MP and Craig Turner
Anders Sörman-Nilsson delivering his speech
Photo credit: Victoria Velton
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