The 2026 Whitsunday Business Conference has been hailed a phenomenal success, bringing together 120 attendees representing 77 businesses – predominantly sole traders and small businesses – for a day of practical learning, connection. and collaboration.
Hosted by the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Conference took place across PCYC Whitsunday and Club Whitsunday, making the most of their conferencing, education, and networking spaces before moving into a relaxed Long Lunch and Business Expo.
The networking lunch proved a particular highlight, with the Chamber events team joking they “hated to interrupt” the conversations as attendees connected with potential customers, suppliers and collaborators, while strengthening existing business relationships.
The day also featured an update from Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins, including the announcement of the 46 businesses in the running for the 2026 Whitsunday Business Awards.
Award-winning media and communications expert Ian Cohen, who brings experience from the Olympic environment, was a standout speaker. One attendee described it as “great to have a prominent speaker invest in our area”, while another said Ian was “totally on the money with his very inspiring talk”.
The inaugural Rising Stars Panel, featuring five local employees, trainees and apprentices aged under 25, also attracted strong feedback, giving attendees a direct insight into what the next generation values in a workplace. “Great to see the up and comers,” said one attendee.
Feedback captured the atmosphere of the day, with delegates describing the Conference as “refreshing”, “very inspiring” and praising the “variety of information and general vibe”.
The proof of the Conference is in its immediate impact, with attendees already identifying at least five actionable ideas, next steps or follow-ups to take back to their businesses. Just as importantly, attendees reported the Conference had already opened the door to new business connections, potential customers, suppliers and collaborators, while strengthening existing relationships.
The day finished with the inaugural Chamber Games at Club Whitsunday – an afternoon of hilarious, highly competitive teamwork and fun.
There were also some big wins through the Conference Discovery Quest, with Mana Skin Body Soul taking first prize, a $1,750 marketing package; followed by Fat Frog Beach Cafe and Brooke Miles Photography.
With the success of this year’s Conference, the Chamber is already looking ahead to Thursday 26 August 2027.
The Conference has also laid the foundation for a broader program of practical business education, with the Chamber’s new Look & Learn sessions launching in September.
The first session will focus on social media, offering free, practical one-on-one help for local businesses and market stallholders. Bring your phone, open your own social media and sit down with the Chamber team to tackle it.
Event Details
What: Chamber’s Look & Learn session on Social Media
When: 9am–11am, Wednesday 9 September
Where: Proserpine Entertainment Centre
RSVP: FREE and open to all businesses and market stallholders.
Introducing the inaugural Chamber Games winners!