Driving Growth, Innovation and Opportunity in the Whitsundays
With Craig Turner, Director Commercial Businesses, Whitsunday Regional Council
Someone who knows the Whitsundays like the back of his hand is Craig Turner. With more than 30 years of experience across tourism, aviation, development, and local government, Craig has worn many hats — each one driven by the same passion: helping the region grow and flourish for generations to come.
Originally from the Sunshine Coast, Craig first discovered the Whitsundays three decades ago.
“I landed a job on Hamilton Island,” he recalls, “and from there it all just unfolded.” His journey took him from Fantasea Cruises to Tourism Whitsundays, and later to the Bowen Shire Council as Tourism Manager. He returned to Fantasea Cruises as Director of Sales and Marketing, managed the Big4 Airlie Cove Resort, and even owned several Subway and Red Rooster stores in the region.
Today, Craig is the Director of Commercial Businesses for Whitsunday Regional Council — a role that places him at the heart of shaping the region’s economic future. He oversees a diverse portfolio: Whitsunday Coast Airport, Shute Harbour Marine Terminal, Foxdale Quarry, three holiday parks, and the economic development team.
“Our focus is on creating opportunities that make a real difference,” Craig shares. “We’re not just managing assets; we’re building the foundations for a stronger, more connected Whitsundays. From the airport to our holiday parks, every project is about supporting local jobs, attracting new investment, and enhancing the quality of life for our community.”
Under his leadership, the Whitsunday Coast Airport has just celebrated its best year on record.
“We’ve reached a new milestone with passenger numbers,” he says. “But it’s not only about how many people come through — it’s about the experience, the economic ripple effect, and what that means for local families and businesses. The airport isn’t just a gateway for tourists. It’s a lifeline supporting agriculture, mining, and helping locals stay connected to loved ones.”
Craig is equally proud of the shift in the region’s approach to economic development.
“We’re no longer waiting for opportunities to come to us,” he says. “We’re out there actively seeking them, building partnerships, and driving growth that sets us up for the future.”
Despite overseeing such a dynamic and wide-ranging portfolio, Craig is quick to acknowledge the team behind the scenes.
“I couldn’t do any of this without them,” he says. “They’re dedicated, passionate, and every one of them shows up with the Whitsundays in mind. Their commitment is what brings these projects to life.”
While it’s a big job, Craig takes it all in his stride. When asked how he keeps so many moving parts in motion, he simply smiles and says, “I’ve always been able to juggle a few balls at once and stay focused on where each one’s going — it just comes naturally.”
When he does find time to slow down, you’ll find Craig enjoying the region he’s worked so hard to nurture — perhaps fishing, paddleboarding, or simply taking in the view from his beachfront unit at Cannonvale.
“That’s the magic of the Whitsundays,” he smiles. “There’s nowhere else quite like it.”
What keeps him going is knowing that every new idea — big or small — weaves into the region’s story.
“Something as simple as activating a Ferris wheel might seem like a small addition,” he reflects, “but it brings families together, sparks joy, and strengthens our sense of community. That’s what it’s all about.”
With two years as Director of Commercial Businesses and four years before that as Chief Operating Officer of Aviation and Tourism, Craig’s track record speaks volumes. He’s helped shape the Whitsundays not just through bold visions, but by rolling up his sleeves and delivering results that locals and visitors can see, feel, and enjoy — today and long into the future.
