Delivered through a collaborative partnership between the Bowen Chamber of Commerce, the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Whitsunday Regional Council, the awards recognise outstanding achievement, leadership and contribution across the Whitsundays business community.
James Cook University is this year’s Principal Partner, reinforcing their commitment to supporting regional growth, innovation, education, and the future of business across the Whitsundays.
With judging led by respected regional and external experts, and an Awards Ceremony will be held 5pm Friday 9 October 2026.
Event Details
What: 2026 Whitsunday Business Awards Event
When: 5pm-9:30pm Friday 9 October
Where: Proserpine Entertainment Centre
Tickets
Early Bird tickets (available until Friday 18 September) $89 per person
Standard tickets (from Saturday 19 September) $109 per person
Your ticket includes:
- Arrival Grazing & Networking — Start the evening with grazing bites and time to catch up, connect, and celebrate with businesses from across the region.
- Two Drink Vouchers — Enjoy two drinks on us, with a cash bar available throughout the evening serving a selection of beer, wine, and soft drinks.
- Sit-Down Main Course — Take your seat for an alternate-drop main course as we celebrate the 2026 nominees and announce this year’s Award winners.
- The Luxe Dessert Bar — Finish the evening with something a little different. Everyone receives their own individual cake to decorate, with a selection of icings and toppings to create your dessert your way.
- Getting There — Return bus transfers will be available from Bowen, Airlie Beach, and Cannonvale, making it easy to enjoy the evening and get home safely.
2026 Award Categories
The 2026 awards program features an exciting lineup of categories designed to reflect the diversity, innovation, and strength of the local business sector.
Best of the Whitsundays: Business of the Year presented by StarFM
Recognising the Business of the Year that sets the benchmark for excellence, innovation, and leadership.
Micro to Small Business and Medium to Large Business award divisions.
Business Leader of the Year presented by Abbot Point Operations
Recognising inspiring leaders whose vision, dedication, and influence have driven exceptional business and regional success.
Micro to Small Business and Medium to Large Business award divisions.
Rising Star: Employee, Apprentice or Trainee presented by TAFE Queensland
Highlighting exceptional employees, apprentices, and trainees who have demonstrated outstanding growth, dedication, and contribution.
Customer Service Excellence presented by Live Life Pharmacy Airlie Beach
Celebrating businesses and individuals who consistently go above and beyond to deliver outstanding customer experiences.
Micro to Small Business and Medium to Large Business award divisions.
Community Champion presented by McDonald’s Restaurants (Airlie Beach, Cannonvale, and Bowen)
Recognising businesses and organisations making a meaningful difference through community contributions and initiatives.
Think Big presented by Bishopp Outdoor Advertising
Recognising businesses or individuals demonstrating bold vision and turning opportunity into action through innovation, expansion, investment, and future-focused thinking, including opportunities connected to Brisbane 2032.
Business Legends of the Whitsundays: Hall of Fame presented by Whitsunday Regional Council
Celebrating businesses or individuals that have achieved long-term success and made an enduring impact on the region.
2026 Award Eligibility
- Applicants must work in or operate a registered business within the Whitsunday Regional Council area.
- Businesses must have been operating continuously for at least 12 months as of Monday 1 June 2026, unless the specific award category states a different eligibility period or is open to new or emerging businesses.
- ‘Small Business’ is defined as sole trader and/or less than 20 employees, and ‘Medium to Large Business’ as those with over 20 employees.
- Employees, apprentices, or trainees must have been working in the business for at least 12 months as of Monday 1 June 2026.
- Businesses and individuals must apply directly for the awards. No third-party nominations will be accepted.
- Applicants can apply to a maximum two award categories but must submit a separate application for each.
- 2025 Winners and Highly Commended Whitsunday Business Awards recipients are unable to apply for the same category in 2026.
- 2026 Sponsors are ineligible to apply for any award category.
- Applicants must demonstrate ethical business practices and compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
- Sole traders, not-for-profits, incorporated associations, and social enterprises are eligible to apply where relevant to category criteria.
Meet the 2025 Nominees & Winners
