Council reopens Proserpine RV Rest Stop
Whitsunday Regional Council today voted unanimously to reopen the popular Proserpine RV Rest Stop, signalling strong support for tourism growth and local business in the heart of Proserpine.
Located behind St Catherine’s Church on Main Street, the free 48-hour stopover will reopen for the dry season (April to October each year), welcoming fully self-contained vehicles and bringing a significant boost to the town’s visitor economy.
Economic modelling shows that reopening the site could inject between $860,000 and $1.7 million annually into the Proserpine economy through traveller spending on local goods and services.
Mayor Ry Collins said the decision reflects Council’s commitment to supporting local business and driving regional tourism.
“Reopening the Proserpine RV Rest Stop makes good sense for our region as it’s a small investment with a big return,” he said.
“This initiative reinforces Proserpine’s role as a welcoming gateway to the Whitsundays and delivers a real boost for local shops, cafes and service providers.
“It’s about getting travellers to stop, explore and spend time and money in our town centres.”
“We have been working with staff since late last year to explore how we could reopen the site in a more economical way while still delivering strong outcomes for the community.
“It’s great to now see that work paying off and this project moving forward.”
Division 3 Councillor John Collins said he was proud to see the community’s calls for reopening the site formally supported by all Councillors.
“I’ve advocated strongly for the return of the RV Rest Stop because the community has been very clear that it works for Proserpine,” Cr Collins said.
“This is a win for our local business community, our tourism operators and the many volunteers who have worked hard to make visitors feel welcome here.
“Council’s unanimous 7-0 decision shows we’re united in backing projects that make a difference for Division 3 and for the broader Whitsundays.”
Under the plan endorsed at today’s Ordinary Council Meeting, the Rest Stop will reopen from April 2026, with minor upgrades, improved signage and seasonal operation to minimise wet-season maintenance.
Council will now progress a Development Approval amendment and finalise lease and operational arrangements ahead of reopening.
For media enquiries, contact:
Greg Martin, Communications and Marketing Manager
07 4945 0617 or Email: communications@whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au