Meet the Winners of the 2025 Whitsunday Business Awards

HIGHLY COMMENDED
Aaron Murphy, Down to Earth Whitsundays

At just 19, Aaron embodies the spirit of a true Rising Star. Arriving in the Whitsundays knowing no one, he embraced his apprenticeship with enthusiasm and determination, quickly becoming a valued member of his team. Aaron has shown remarkable growth, mastering skills across construction, landscaping, and pool installation while mentoring new starters and lifting team morale through his positivity and reliability. Beyond work, he’s built strong community ties through his love of fishing, 4WDing, and his rescue dog, Rocky. Aaron’s story is proof of what’s possible with hard work and heart.

WINNER
Shontelle Betzel, Bowen Rail Company

Shontelle is a rising star at Bowen Rail Company, known for her technical expertise, leadership, and commitment to inclusion. From apprentice to respected signalling specialist, her journey reflects resilience, innovation, and purpose. As the only woman in her team, she drives change—improving operations, mentoring others, and shaping a more inclusive culture. A strong advocate for equity, her lived experience has influenced Bowen Rail’s diversity and recruitment approach. Beyond her role, she supports others through industry mentoring and co-mentoring programs, while studying electrical engineering and business leadership. Shontelle exemplifies the next generation of regional leaders — capable, courageous, and inspiring.

We also congratulate Shontelle on her recent marriage and coming back from her honeymoon in time for the event.

WINNER
EDGE Dance Studio Whitsunday

EDGE Dance Studio is more than a business—it’s a mission. Founded to create a safe, inclusive, and empowering space for children of all abilities, EDGE now serves over 235 students across two regional locations. In just 3.5 years, it has introduced innovative programs like Ready Set Dance, grown enrolments by 441%, created leadership pathways, and maintained a 95% retention rate with 100% five-star reviews. Committed to community, EDGE supports local causes and prioritises accessibility. Recognised nationally and regionally, EDGE exemplifies passion, persistence, and people-first leadership, making it a true Small Business Hero in the Whitsundays.

HIGHLY COMMENDED
Katrina Williams, Garden Shack Whitsundays 

Katrina is the heart of Garden Shack Whitsundays, turning every customer interaction into a memorable experience. In just 18 months, she’s mastered plants, pool care, and landscaping, building trust and rapport with the community. Her warmth, resilience, and dedication make her a true Customer Service Champion.

HIGHLY COMMENDED
Mana Skin Body & Soul 

MANA puts customers at the heart of everything, creating personalised, memorable experiences. Over the past year, the team has enhanced consultations, aftercare, and service recovery, delivering spa-quality service with warmth and care. Recognition as a Customer Service Champion celebrates their dedication, skill, and commitment to the Whitsundays community.

WINNER
Magnums Accommodation Airlie Beach

At Magnums, exceptional customer service is at the heart of everything they do. Every interaction is guided by empathy, respect, and a commitment to making guests feel valued. From resolving travel disruptions to adding thoughtful touches, the team anticipates needs and delivers solutions with warmth. Recognition in this category celebrates the quiet dedication and care that defines their culture and reputation, while highlighting their ongoing investment in training, team wellbeing, and service innovation.

HIGHLY COMMENDED
Whitsunday Segway Tours

Whitsunday Segway Tours exemplifies sustainable tourism, innovation, and community engagement. As an Eco Tourism Certified business, they deliver accessible, high-quality experiences while reducing environmental impact and educating visitors on responsible tourism. This highly commended mention celebrates their leadership, positive influence on the region, and commitment to preserving the Whitsundays for future generations.

WINNER
Coral Sea Marina

Coral Sea Marina is committed to creating memorable experiences that leave visitors inspired and connected to the Whitsundays’ natural beauty. Serving thousands of visitors annually, it prioritises sustainable operations and sets industry-leading standards in environmental stewardship. The marina actively promotes responsible boating, sustainable tourism, and regional pride. This award reinforces their role as an eco-innovator, strengthens their reputation within the marine industry and local community, and inspires its team’s ongoing commitment to conservation.

HIGHLY COMMENDED
Mariah Dean, Frangipani Cleaning Services

At a young age, Mariah launched a cleaning business, overcoming doubts about her experience through professionalism, consistent results, and community impact. Her journey proves that age is no barrier to entrepreneurship, inspiring others, highlighting the value of small businesses in the Whitsundays, and demonstrating leadership and positive change

WINNER
Sam Vanderpoel, Rolling with Netherpoel

At just 17, Sam has demonstrated exceptional courage, skill, and determination in building Rolling with Netherpoel, a family business specialising in roller and panel door repairs, servicing, and motor installs, alongside handyman services. Homeschooling allowed him to develop practical skills, independence, and hands-on experience with local rollerdoor companies, earning him the nickname “roller door guru.” Sam combines technical expertise with reliability and strong client relationships, establishing a trusted local reputation. Focused on growth, he aims to expand services and staff while continuing to provide high-quality, dependable service across Bowen and the wider Whitsundays region.

HIGHLY COMMENDED
Bowen Old People’s Home Society (Murroona Gardens)

Murroona Gardens, Bowen’s community-owned aged care provider, has cared for locals for over 40 years. Offering residential, home care, and independent living, they keep seniors close to family while employing 165 locals. Built through community generosity, our focus remains on dignity, connection, and respectful, locally grounded care.

WINNER
Bowen Tourism and Business

Bowen Tourism and Business is a not-for-profit Local Tourism Organisation operating the Bowen Visitor Information Centre and Front Beach Information Booth. At its heart, they are about community—welcoming visitors, sharing the region’s highlights, and promoting Bowen, Collinsville, and the wider Whitsundays. Supported by 18 dedicated volunteers, Bowen Tourism and Business has achieved record visitation, 9% growth above the state average, and expanded services including Driver Reviver and the Bowen Audio Guide. Community engagement through events, schools, and volunteer programs connects residents and businesses, fostering economic and social benefits. This award celebrates the team’s dedication and showcases Bowen as a connected, vibrant region.

HIGHLY COMMENDED
Bowen Gumlu Growers Association

The Association drives innovation and sustainability in the Whitsundays’ $650 million horticulture industry, supporting over 3,500 jobs. Through initiatives like the Bowen Food Futures Precinct and Smart Data Decisions, Bowen Gumlu Growers Association transforms surplus produce, champions ag-tech adoption, strengthens governance, and advocates on critical issues, ensuring long-term prosperity for growers and the community.

WINNER
Whitsunday Life Newspaper 

At a time when many publications were closing, Life Publishing Group proved that local print media is still deeply valued in regional communities. Their flagship title, Mackay and Whitsunday Life, launched following the closure of 14 regional newspapers in Queensland. Life Publishing Group produced free weekly newspapers and lifestyle magazines across North Queensland from their Whitsunday headquarters – three weekly newspapers (Mackay and Whitsunday Life, Burdekin Life, Hinchinbrook Life) plus bi-monthly Core Life and Tripping Magazine. Printing over 22,000 copies weekly, with 25,000 unique website visitors and 18,000 social followers, Mackay and Whitsunday Life celebrates local stories, businesses, and people. In five years, they’ve grown into an award-winning, sustainable, and innovative regional media company.

HIGHLY COMMENDED
Garry Matthias, Corrsafe Enterprises

Garry, founder of Corrsafe Enterprises, has transformed safety training in the Whitsundays since 1999. By bringing nationally recognised high-risk work and safety training locally, he has saved businesses time and money while keeping workers safe and employed. His vision has strengthened industry, families, and community resilience.

WINNER
Kellee Fogg, Whitsunday Law

Under Kellee’s leadership, Whitsunday Law has become a cornerstone of the Whitsunday region, driving local employment, regional investment, and community development. She mentors and develops local talent, ensuring staff thrive professionally. Kellee prioritises local suppliers, keeping operational expenditure within the region, and actively engages in community sponsorships and initiatives. Her approach strengthens the regional economy, supports local businesses, and fosters a connected, resilient business community. Through strategic leadership, mentorship, and community commitment, Kellee demonstrates how regional law firms can deliver professional excellence while making a lasting social and economic impact.

WINNER
Bowen Old People’s Home Society (Murroona Gardens)

Murroona Gardens has proudly served Bowen for over 40 years, delivering “locals looking after locals” through a full continuum of care: residential aged care, home care packages, and independent living units. As a community-owned, not-for-profit provider and one of Bowen’s largest employers, they reinvest in local jobs, training, and services. Expanding dementia-specific homes, embracing digital care, and sustainable initiatives, Murroona Gardens strengthens both the community and economy. Their mission goes beyond care: they reduce isolation, support families, and ensure seniors remain connected and valued. This legacy embodies innovation, compassion, and lasting community impact in the Whitsundays.

WINNER
Abbot Point Operations

The North Queensland Export Terminal at the Port of Abbot Point has been a cornerstone of Queensland’s coal export industry for 40 years. As Australia’s northernmost deep-water coal terminal, they efficiently connects mines in the Bowen and Galilee Basins to global markets, serving 17 countries during 2023-24. Operated by Abbot Point Operations, the Terminal supports more than 320 local jobs, underpins regional economic growth, and has invested over $2.15 million in community programs. Milestones like the 2011 expansion, partnerships with Juru Enterprises, and programs for environmental monitoring highlight their commitment to sustainable development. The Hall of Fame recognition celebrates four decades of operational excellence, economic contribution, and strong community engagement, cementing Abbot Point Operations’ legacy as a leader in both the Queensland resources sector and the Whitsundays region.