2025 Whitsunday Tourism Awards

Whitsunday Tourism Awards 2025 Set to Celebrate the Region’s Best

MEDIA RELEASE - 17 September 2025

The Whitsundays is set to sparkle as the region prepares to honour its leading tourism operators at the 2025 Whitsunday Tourism Awards, to be held on Saturday, 18 October at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre.

This year marks a fresh chapter for the awards, with the introduction of a new structure based on the Best of Queensland Experience Program (BOQEP). This innovative approach means recognition is awarded not by submissions, but through real results and customer feedback, ensuring the finalists reflect genuine excellence.

To qualify, businesses must have an ATDW (Australian Tourism Data Warehouse) listing and meet strict benchmarks, including:
• Consistently exceptional customer reviews
• A website with secure online booking capability
• Active social media presence
• Membership with the Regional Tourism Organisation
• Holding relevant tourism accreditation

Across The Whitsundays, 123 products were recognised through BOQ, an extraordinary result that showcases the region’s outstanding standards.

A total of 93 finalists across 14 categories will be celebrated this year, representing the diversity of The Whitsundays’ offering, from reef adventures and island stays to beachside dining, land tours and mainland accommodation.

“These new criteria highlight what today’s travellers value most: seamless online booking, authentic social media engagement and, above all, outstanding customer experiences,” said Tim Booth, CEO of Tourism Whitsundays.

“October 18 will be their night to shine, and we can’t wait to celebrate with them.”

The 2025 Whitsunday Tourism Awards are proudly supported by Naming Rights Sponsor Bishopp Outdoor Advertising. Founded in 1993, Bishopp has grown over three decades into Australia’s premier regional out-of-home advertising company, helping destinations and businesses connect with audiences across the country. Alongside Bishopp, the awards are backed by valued partners Hero, Mackay & Whitsunday Life, and Whitsunday Transit. A special thanks is also extended to the Whitsunday Regional Council and Tourism and Events Queensland, whose ongoing support makes this event possible.

About Tourism Whitsundays: Tourism Whitsundays (TW) is the organisation responsible for destination marketing and visitor attraction for the Whitsunday region. It is the lead agency recognised by Tourism and Events Queensland and the Whitsunday Regional Council to lead the promotion of the region as a tourism destination. Tourism Whitsundays markets all aspects of the region including the Great Barrier Reef, Whitsunday Islands and Coast, accommodation, boating and sailing, fishing, touring, recreational activities, adventure, dining, shopping, weddings and honeymoons, conferencing and business events.