The Whitsunday region came together in style on Friday evening to celebrate the outstanding talent, innovation and resilience of local businesses at the inaugural Whitsunday Business Awards, hosted at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre.
More than 200 guests attended the sold-out event, delivered in partnership by Whitsunday Regional Council, the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Bowen Chamber of Commerce.
The Awards recognised excellence across 10 categories, celebrating the people, ideas and enterprises driving economic growth, community life and regional identity across the Whitsundays.
Mayor Ry Collins said the event showcased the strength and spirit of the region’s business community.
“What stood out tonight was not just the quality of our finalists, but the sense of pride and possibility in the room. These businesses are the backbone of our local economy, supporting jobs, families and community life across the region.
“This inaugural awards program is a key initiative of Council’s new Whitsunday 2030 Economic Development Strategy, and it is wonderful to see it brought to life so strongly in its first year.
“Congratulations to every winner, nominee and supporter for helping to build a bright future for the Whitsundays.”
Jo Shepherd, Bowen Chamber of Commerce, said the Whitsunday Business Awards are more than recognition.
“They shine a light on the resilience, innovation and community spirit that define our region, and behind every success story is hard work, perseverance and a commitment to growth.
“Tonight is also an opportunity to acknowledge the creativity, strength and contribution each business brings to the Whitsundays.
“Every story matters, and together they show what is possible when dedication meets opportunity.”
Allan Milostic, President of the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said the Awards recognise the individuals and businesses who go above and beyond every day.
“By celebrating their achievements, the program helps inspire others to grow, create jobs and strengthen the regional economy.
“We are proud to partner with the Bowen Chamber of Commerce and Whitsunday Regional Council to deliver this inaugural program, bringing businesses and communities together in celebration.”
2025 Whitsunday Business Awards Winners
Rising Star: Employee, Apprentice or Trainee
Presented by McDonald’s Restaurants (Airlie Beach, Cannonvale & Bowen)
Winner: Shontelle Betzel – Bowen Rail Company
Highly Commended: Aaron Murphy – Down to Earth Whitsundays
Small Business Hero
Presented by Bishopp Outdoor Advertising
Winner: EDGE Dance Studio Whitsunday
Customer Service Champion
Presented by LiveLife Pharmacy Airlie Beach
Winner: Magnums Accommodation Airlie Beach
Highly Commended: Katrina Williams – Garden Shack Whitsundays
Highly Commended: Mana Skin Body & Soul
Eco Excellence
Presented by Green Energy Technologies
Winner: Coral Sea Marina
Highly Commended: Whitsunday Segway Tours
Trailblazing Young Entrepreneur
Presented by TAFE Queensland
Winner: Sam Vanderpoel – Rolling with Netherpoel
Highly Commended: Mariah Dean – Frangipani Cleaning Services
Community Champion
Presented by Rotary Club of Airlie Beach
Winner: Bowen Tourism and Business
Highly Commended: Bowen Old People’s Home Society (Murroona Gardens)
Regional Game Changer
Presented by nbn Co.
Winner: Whitsunday Life Newspaper
Highly Commended: Bowen Gumlu Growers Association
Business Leader of the Year
Presented by Abbot Point Operations
Winner: Kellee Fogg – Whitsunday Law
Highly Commended: Garry Matthias – Corrsafe Enterprises
Best of the Whitsundays: Business of the Year
Presented by Australian Radio Network (StarFM)
Winner: Bowen Old People’s Home Society (Murroona Gardens)
Business Legends of the Whitsundays: Hall of Fame
Presented by Whitsunday Regional Council
Winner: Abbot Point Operations
Acknowledgements
The Awards were proudly supported by:
Principal Sponsor: Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine
Media Partners: Whitsunday Life and Bishopp Outdoor Advertising
Transport Partner: Whitsunday Transit
Category Sponsors: Abbot Point Operations, Bishopp Outdoor Advertising, Green Energy Technologies, LiveLife Pharmacy Airlie Beach, McDonald’s Restaurants, NBN Co., Rotary Club of Airlie Beach, StarFM, and TAFE Queensland.
Event Supporters: Telstra Regional Australia and Option Insurance Brokers
Local Suppliers: Coastal Food Design, Graphic House, Infront Security Services, Shivoo Event Hire, TeePee Events Whitsunday, Total Entertainment, Ash Smith, Triptide Creative, Tropical Designs and the Proserpine Entertainment Centre team.
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