Save the Date: 2026 Whitsunday Business Conference Announced
The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry is pleased to announce that the 2026 Whitsunday Business Conference will be held on Thursday 27 August, across Club Whitsunday and PCYC Whitsunday in Airlie Beach.
Following the success of last year’s sold-out event, the Conference will once again bring together business leaders, industry experts, government representatives, and professional service providers for a day of practical insights, fresh ideas, and meaningful conversations about the future of business in the region.
Call for Speakers Now Open
The Chamber’s Conference Committee is currently designing a dynamic and engaging program featuring keynote presentations, interactive workshops, and thought-provoking panel discussions.
Expressions of Interest are now open for speakers and workshop facilitators who can deliver practical, relevant sessions that help businesses navigate challenges, seize new opportunities, and work smarter.
The Committee is particularly interested in presentations that showcase real-world examples of innovation, including the use of technology and artificial intelligence to improve efficiency, enhance decision-making, and drive business growth.
Whitsundays Chamber President Allan Milostic said the Conference continues to grow as a key platform for the region’s business community.
“The Whitsunday Business Conference has quickly become a flagship event for our region, bringing together businesses to share ideas, build connections, and focus on practical outcomes. We’re excited to build on this momentum in 2026 and continue supporting our business community to grow and thrive.”
Conference Committee Chair and Chamber Vice President Jannah Baker said the locally driven approach remains central to the program’s success.
“We’re proud to design a program that reflects the real needs of local businesses. By opening expressions of interest for speakers, we’re inviting our community to be part of shaping the conversation – ensuring sessions are relevant, practical, and grounded in real-world experience.”
Submitting an Expression of Interest is quick and easy, requiring only a short response to a series of key questions.
Those interested in contributing to the 2026 Conference are encouraged to apply and be part of shaping this important annual event for the Whitsunday business community.
Conference Themes
Do you have a presentation or workshop idea that aligns with one of the themes below?
We encourage sessions that challenge common assumptions, spark discussion and provide practical insights that attendees can apply in their businesses immediately.
Please complete the Expression of Interest form below by 5:00pm Friday 17 April 2026.
We will be in touch with an update on Monday 4 May 2026.
- The Future Workforce – Hiring, keeping, and motivating great people.
How can regional businesses attract, develop and retain strong teams?
Sessions may explore recruitment strategies, workplace culture, leadership approaches, supporting apprentices or young employees entering the workforce, and building resilient teams.
- The Numbers That Matter – Pricing, profit, and cashflow in the real world.
How are businesses staying profitable in a changing economic environment?
Sessions may explore topics such as pricing strategies, managing rising costs, improving margins, financial planning or using technology and AI to make better financial decisions.
- Your Brand in Action – Digital marketing, social media, and standing out online.
What strategies are genuinely delivering results?
Sessions may explore digital marketing tools, social media strategies, AI-driven marketing, local SEO, content strategies or cost-effective ways to reach customers.
- Future-Ready Business – Systems, tools, automation, and AI.
What tools or systems are helping businesses save time and operate more efficiently?
Sessions may explore automation, workflow improvements, digital tools, AI applications or operational innovations that reduce workload and improve productivity.
- When Things Go Wrong – Respond, recover, and build stronger for what’s next.
How should organisations prepare for unexpected events — and what comes next?
Sessions may explore real-world approaches to crisis response, communication under pressure, and decision-making in uncertain moments. Beyond the immediate response, this theme focuses on how businesses can strengthen systems, improve resilience and build more sustainable operations for the future.
Other Ways to Get Involved
Not up for presenting? There are still plenty of ways to be part of the conference.
Businesses can:
- Provide a special conference offer
- Contribute a prize or giveaway
Simply indicate your interest in the Expression of Interest form and a member of the Chamber team will be in touch.
A detailed sponsorship prospectus will be released soon, highlighting additional opportunities to partner and be part of the 2026 Conference.
Express Your Interest Now!
Please complete the Expression of Interest form below by 5:00pm Friday 17 April 2026.
We will be in touch with an update on Monday 4 May 2026.
Conference Details
What: The 2026 Whitsunday Business Conference
When: Thursday 27 August 2026
Where: Club Whitsunday and PCYC Whitsunday, Airlie Beach
Registrations open in May.
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