Strong Turnout as State of the Region 2026 Delivers 'Think Big' Vision

Published on 11 May 2026

Up to 200 business, industry and community members attended Council’s State of the Region 2026 – Think Big event at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on Friday 8 May, in a strong show of interest and support for the future of the Whitsundays.

The event brought together a broad cross-section of the community alongside regional leaders to explore economic growth, investment, major projects and emerging opportunities shaping the years ahead.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the event reinforced both the strength of the region and the importance of planning boldly for the future.

“The Whitsundays is in a strong position and what we saw in the room was a genuine appetite to think big about where we’re heading,” Mayor Collins said. “From economic growth and investment to major infrastructure and Brisbane 2032 opportunities, there is real momentum building across our region. It’s about making sure we are ready to take those opportunities and turn them into long-term benefits for our community.”

A key feature of the program was a series of three panel discussions bringing together leaders from across sport, government, industry and tourism. These included an Olympic and Paralympic panel featuring high profile athletes and representatives connected to Brisbane 2032, alongside broader discussions with government and industry leaders, including guest speaker Dominique Lamb, Director of Community Affairs for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, and a dedicated session focused on regional opportunities, investment and long-term growth.

A key focus of the day was the opportunities linked to Brisbane 2032, including tourism demand, supply chain participation, workforce growth and procurement pathways, with discussion highlighting the importance of working together and early preparation for regional businesses.

Following the main program, the Olympic and Paralympic panel members remained for a dedicated student session with local high school students. This included a panel discussion and interactive workshop, where students shared their aspirations and ideas for the future of the Whitsunday region, and heard directly from elite athletes about resilience, opportunity and goal setting.

Mayor Collins said the student session added an important dimension to the day.

“Bringing our young people into the conversation is essential,” he said.

“Hearing their ideas for the Whitsundays’ future and connecting that with the lived experience of high performance athletes, creates something powerful. It shows that ambition and opportunity start right here in our region.”

State of the Region 2026 forms part of Council’s ongoing commitment to strengthening economic development, supporting collaboration and ensuring the Whitsundays continues to grow with confidence and purpose.

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For media enquiries, contact: Lisa Maher, Senior Communications Officer
07 4945 0204, 0408 713 243 or Email: communications@whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au