Mayor’s Message – Building the Future, Together

As 2025 draws to a close, I am incredibly proud of the momentum we have built across the Whitsundays. It’s momentum not just about growth, but about shaping a stronger, smarter and more sustainable region for future generations.

This year has been one of record-breaking achievements, major milestones and exciting opportunities that show the Whitsundays is building real momentum and shaping its future with confidence.

Our Whitsunday Economic Development Strategy 2030 set the tone early, outlining a bold vision for a connected, competitive and resilient economy. It focuses on attracting new investment, strengthening local industries, creating jobs, and building the kind of infrastructure that supports a thriving community.

You only need to look around to see that vision coming to life.

Our Whitsunday Coast Airport welcomed a record 522,000 passengers this year — the highest in our history. That growth cements our airport as not only a tourism gateway, but a vital hub for business and freight that keeps our region connected and competitive.

Our reputation as a destination for innovation and smart regional planning continues to grow too. From advancing the Bowen Foreshore Masterplan, Collinsville Community Hub, Airlie Beach Masterplan, Whitsunday Sports Precinct, and Cannonvale Community Hub, to securing millions in state and federal funding for critical road, water and housing infrastructure — every success helps futureproof our region for what’s next.

Each of these masterplans tells a story about where we are headed as a region.

In Bowen, the Foreshore Masterplan sets out an ambitious, long-term vision to strengthen the town’s connection with the waterfront — enhancing the promenade, green spaces and event areas while celebrating Bowen’s coastal identity.

In Airlie Beach, we are reimagining the heart of our key tourist town by creating more vibrant public spaces, stronger connections between Main Street and the foreshore, and a town centre that truly captures the tropical character of the Whitsundays.

In Cannonvale, the Community Hub will bring together essential civic facilities including a new library, customer service centre, and community spaces surrounded by green parkland — shaping a genuine social and civic heart for our growing urban centre.

The Whitsunday Sports Precinct Masterplan sets the foundation for a multi-sport destination capable of hosting regional and state-level competitions, supporting our local clubs, schools and families.

Meanwhile, in Collinsville, the Community Hub and Showgrounds Masterplan will deliver a renewed space that supports everything from events and sport to learning and cultural celebration, providing a real boost for our inland communities.

One project that truly stands out for our community is the Hamilton Plains Flood Immunity Upgrade, which is now officially under construction.

For decades, Hamilton Plains has been a pinch point that locals have watched go under every wet season. It’s been promised by many over the years — but now it’s finally happening. Seeing boots on the ground and machinery moving is more than just a construction milestone — it’s proof that persistence pays off.

Another major milestone this year was our confirmation as the host of Olympic Sailing for the Brisbane 2032 Games. This once-in-a-generation opportunity will bring global attention, investment and infrastructure upgrades that will benefit locals for decades to come.

We’ll see better public spaces, improved transport links, and a legacy that inspires young athletes and businesses alike.

Our region’s cultural heart continues to shine too. The Proserpine Entertainment Centre (PEC) has truly cemented its place as a hub of creativity and connection.

Throughout the year, the PEC has hosted a vibrant mix of live shows, touring performances, art exhibitions, business events, gala evenings, and free community movie nights, bringing people together from across the region.

The PEC stands as a testament to what happens when we invest in people, creativity and community — delivering experiences that inspire, entertain and bring us together.

We’ve also made significant progress on housing and enabling infrastructure. In 2025 alone, we secured more than $48 million through the Residential Activation Fund to fast-track water and sewer projects that unlock new land and get homes built sooner.

As the fastest-growing local government area in regional Queensland, we know that planning for growth means getting the essentials right — roads, water, housing and jobs.

Across the region, projects like the Bowen Developmental Road sealing, Kelsey Creek Bridge upgrades, and our focus on future-ready precincts are strengthening the vital connections that keep our economy moving and our communities safe.

As we look ahead to 2026, the focus remains on keeping pace with our record growth while protecting the lifestyle and natural beauty that make the Whitsundays so special.

Together, we are building a region that is ready for the future — one that offers opportunity, resilience and a great quality of life for all who call it home.

The future is bright for the Whitsundays — and this is only the beginning.

Ry Collins

Mayor, Whitsunday Regional Council

‍