Closing Soon! Whitsunday Business Awards 2025

Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine is proud to come onboard as this year’s Principal Partner.

“Local businesses are at the heart of our community.

They support families, employ locals, and make the Whitsundays an even better place to live and work.

We’re proud to partner with the 2025 Whitsunday Business Awards because celebrating business excellence is about celebrating the future of our region” said Mark Henry, Chair of Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine.

One of the flagship categories, the Regional Game Changer Award, recognises businesses fuelling economic growth, innovation, and community prosperity.

“We’re proud to support this category, celebrating bold businesses proving that innovation knows no postcode.

Regional Australia is brimming with visionaries and we’re here to champion every one of them,” said Emma Murphy, nbn Co’s Regional Development and Engagement Manager, Central Queensland.

TAFE Queensland will present the Trailblazing Young Entrepreneur Award, celebrating rising stars under 25.

“Working alongside industry and Queensland communities is at the heart of everything we do at TAFE Queensland,” said Susan Kinobe, TAFE Queensland North General Manager.

“Sponsoring this award is a chance to celebrate local business excellence and the young leaders shaping the future of the Whitsunday region.”

The Small Business Hero Award recognises sole traders and small businesses making a big impact through ambition, innovation, and resilience.

“At Bishopp, we believe small businesses are the heartbeat of regional Australia. The Whitsundays is home to so many passionate operators who drive connection, creativity and opportunity.

We’re proud to support this award and to celebrate the people who are helping to shape the future of the Whitsundays,” said James Beadman, General Sales Manager of Bishopp.

The Community Champion Award, sponsored by the Rotary Club of Airlie Beach, celebrates businesses that give back to the community.

“This award reflects Rotary’s dedication to community service, finding ways to improve the quality of life for people in their communities and to serve the public interest.

It aligns with the commitment of members to use their professional skills and expertise to serve the community, promote ethical practices, and inspire others,” the Club said

Finally, the Hall of Fame Award, proudly supported by the Whitsunday Regional Council.

“In the Whitsunday region, businesses create jobs, support families and drive the growth and prosperity of our communities. They are the true backbone of our economy, and their efforts underpin the liveability and opportunities we all enjoy,” said Mayor Ry Collins.

“The Hall of Fame is a very special category within the inaugural Whitsunday Business Awards because it recognises those who have not only achieved success but sustained it over many years.

For me personally, this award is long overdue recognition for those who have been kicking goals for many years. It’s about celebrating legacy and honouring the businesses and individuals who have laid the foundations we continue to build on through their dedication, resilience, and innovation.

On behalf of Whitsunday Regional Council, I am proud to support this award category. Council values the immense contribution of our business community, and the Hall of Fame is a fitting way to honour those whose impact will continue to shape our region for generations to come.”