As Whitsunday Regional Council&rsquo;s online engagement space, we encourage you to participate in a range of Council activities, from major infrastructure works to planning studies, events, community aspirations and changes in policy and legislation.&nbsp;Your input will help inform and influence the decisions we make. Register now and become part of #OurWhitsunday community.&nbsp;

Welcome to Your Say Whitsunday

<div class="xdj266r x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak x1vvkbs x126k92a"><div dir="auto">We&rsquo;re excited to introduce a new trial youth program, &ldquo;Our Library, Our Space&rdquo;, running from January to June 2026, designed for teens aged 13+. We want to make our libraries better places for young people &mdash; and we need your help. </div></div>This survey is quick and easy. You don&rsquo;t need to use the library now to take part, and there are no right or wrong answers. You can skip any questions you don&rsquo;t want to answer.Your ideas will help us design youth spaces, activities and programs across our libraries.

Our Library, Our Space - Youth Program Trial 

Council is undertaking an extensive parks asset renewal program from November 2024 &ndash; April 2025, addressing over 75 aged or weather damaged assets across 23 parks throughout the Region.The program is fully funded by Council and is focused on delivering long-term value for ratepayers, including:<ul><li>Renewing infrastructure before it becomes unsafe or unusable</li><li>Upgrading well utilised infrastructure in high-profile parks</li><li>Underused assets will be removed and not replaced to consolidate investment in high-use parks</li><li>The project is guided by Council&rsquo;s Open Space Strategy 2022, usage observations, asset assessments and historic feedback, which helps prioritise which assets to demolish, renew, or upgrade, ensuring our investment goes to where it matters most.</li></ul>Please <a href="https://yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/100372/widgets/461728/documents/318739" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">view our Fact sheet</a> for further information and frequently asked questions.Regional park renewals include:<table style="width: 85%; margin-right: calc(15%);"><thead><tr><th style="width: 33.883%;">Airlie Beach &amp; Surrounds Park</th><th style="width: 31.0345%;">Works</th><th style="width: 34.9325%;">Estimated Dates (Subject to weather)</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td style="width: 33.883%;">Galbraith Park (north) </td><td style="width: 31.0345%;">Playground renewal </td><td style="width: 34.9325%;">Timing TBC - 2026</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 33.883%;">Fairy Tree Park </td><td style="width: 31.0345%;">Playground renewal </td><td style="width: 34.9325%;">Early December - mid December</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 33.883%;">Airlie Beach Lagoon </td><td style="width: 31.0345%;">Playground renewal Removal of climbing unit, liberty swing and ping pong table</td><td style="width: 34.9325%;">Late November - early December</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 33.883%;">VMR &amp; Whitsunday Lions Park </td><td style="width: 31.0345%;">Renewal of exercise equipment </td><td style="width: 34.9325%;">Timing TBC - 2026 </td></tr><tr><td style="width: 33.883%;">Waite Creek Park </td><td style="width: 31.0345%;">Removal exercise equipment with no replacement </td><td style="width: 34.9325%;">Timing TBC - 2026 </td></tr><tr><td style="width: 33.883%;">Whitsunday Lakes Park </td><td style="width: 31.0345%;">Renewal of softfall </td><td style="width: 34.9325%;">Timing TBC - 2026 </td></tr><tr><td style="width: 33.883%;">Beach Road Park </td><td style="width: 31.0345%;">Renewal of softfall </td><td style="width: 34.9325%;">Timing TBC - 2026 </td></tr><tr><td style="width: 33.883%;">Logans Adventure Playground </td><td style="width: 31.0345%;">Renewal of playground softfall </td><td style="width: 34.9325%;">Timing TBC - 2026 </td></tr><tr><td style="width: 33.883%;">Wildlife Park </td><td style="width: 31.0345%;">Renewal of playground softfall </td><td style="width: 34.9325%;">Timing TBC - 2026 </td></tr><tr><td style="width: 33.883%;">Island Drive Park </td><td style="width: 31.0345%;">New shelter and bench </td><td style="width: 34.9325%;">Timing TBC - 2026 </td></tr><tr><td colspan="3" style="width: 99.8276%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"> </td></tr><tr><td style="width: 33.883%; background-color: rgb(239, 239, 239);">Conway &amp; Wilson Beach Park </td><td style="width: 31.0345%; background-color: rgb(239, 239, 239);">Works </td><td style="width: 34.9325%; background-color: rgb(239, 239, 239);">Estimated Dates (Subject to weather) </td></tr><tr><td style="width: 33.883%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Wilson Beach Foreshore Park </td><td style="width: 31.0345%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Renewal of swings </td><td style="width: 34.9325%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Mid December</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 33.883%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Conway Beach Foreshore Park </td><td style="width: 31.0345%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Removal of single slide and swings with no replacement </td><td style="width: 34.9325%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Timing 2026 - TBC </td></tr><tr><td colspan="3" style="width: 100%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"> </td></tr><tr><td style="width: 33.883%; background-color: rgb(239, 239, 239);">Bowen Parks</td><td style="width: 31.0345%; background-color: rgb(239, 239, 239);">Works</td><td style="width: 34.9325%; background-color: rgb(239, 239, 239);">Estimated Dates (Subject to weather) </td></tr><tr><td style="width: 33.883%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Bowen Front Beach Park</td><td style="width: 31.0345%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Playground renewal</td><td style="width: 34.9325%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Early November - mid November </td></tr><tr><td style="width: 33.883%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Col Leather Sporting Complex Bowen </td><td style="width: 31.0345%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Playground renewal</td><td style="width: 34.9325%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Mid December</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 33.883%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Hansen Park</td><td style="width: 31.0345%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Playground renewal</td><td style="width: 34.9325%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Early November - mid November</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 33.883%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Horseshoe Bay Park</td><td style="width: 31.0345%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Playground renewal</td><td style="width: 34.9325%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Early November</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 33.883%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Rose Bay Park</td><td style="width: 31.0345%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Playground renewal</td><td style="width: 34.9325%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Early November - mid November</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 33.883%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Queens Beach Park</td><td style="width: 31.0345%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Exercise equipment renewal</td><td style="width: 34.9325%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Early November - mid November</td></tr><tr><td colspan="3" style="width: 100%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"> </td></tr><tr><td style="width: 33.883%; background-color: rgb(239, 239, 239);">Collinsville Parks</td><td style="width: 31.0345%; background-color: rgb(239, 239, 239);">Works </td><td style="width: 34.9325%; background-color: rgb(239, 239, 239);">Estimated Dates (Subject to weather) </td></tr><tr><td style="width: 33.883%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Lions Playland Park</td><td style="width: 31.0345%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Playground renewal </td><td style="width: 34.9325%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Late November - early December</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 33.883%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Pelican Park</td><td style="width: 31.0345%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Playground renewal</td><td style="width: 34.9325%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Late November - early December</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 33.883%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Scottville Lions Park</td><td style="width: 31.0345%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Playground renewal </td><td style="width: 34.9325%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Early December - mid December </td></tr><tr><td style="width: 33.883%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Scottville Oval</td><td style="width: 31.0345%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Demolition - no renewal</td><td style="width: 34.9325%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Mid November - late November </td></tr><tr><td style="width: 33.883%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Mt Coolon Park</td><td style="width: 31.0345%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Playground renewal</td><td style="width: 34.9325%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Mid November - late November</td></tr><tr><td colspan="3" style="width: 99.8501%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"> </td></tr><tr><td style="width: 33.883%; background-color: rgb(239, 239, 239);">Proserpine &amp; Gloucester Parks</td><td style="width: 31.0345%; background-color: rgb(239, 239, 239);">Works</td><td style="width: 34.9325%; background-color: rgb(239, 239, 239);">Estimated Dates (Subject to weather) </td></tr><tr><td style="width: 33.883%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Rotary Park</td><td style="width: 31.0345%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Renewal of playground </td><td style="width: 34.9325%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Timing 2026 - TBC </td></tr><tr><td style="width: 33.883%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Halpannel Park</td><td style="width: 31.0345%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Renewal of cricket pitch </td><td style="width: 34.9325%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Timing 2026 - TBC </td></tr><tr><td style="width: 33.883%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Dingo Beach Foreshore Park</td><td style="width: 31.0345%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Renewal of playground </td><td style="width: 34.9325%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Early November - mid November</td></tr></tbody></table>

Parks Regional Asset Renewal Program

Council are seeking to assist residents impacted by flying-fox roosts in Collinsville through the release of resident assistance grants for lifestyle mitigations that help offset impacts of flying-fox roost noise, odour and property damage.View our <a href="https://yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/99777/widgets/459333/documents/305212" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Fact sheet </a>to develop your understanding of who may apply, what is eligible for funding and the application process.Council secured a $46,000 Queensland Government grant and is contributing $20,000 to assist residents directly impacted by flying-fox roosts in urban areas to invest in lifestyle mitigations to offset impacts. Since 2021, Council has undertaken various intervention efforts with limited success and mixed feedback regarding high-intensity measures. This initiative is one of several tools available to support residents, and as it is funded by the State Government, it does not limit budget for future intervention options.During the <a href="https://yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/flying-fox-strategy" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Flying-fox Policy and Plan consultation in July 2024</a>, a subsidy was suggested by the community as one of the management options that could help affected residents.Successful applicants are able to claim up to 75% of costs for eligible items, up to $3,000. Application process<ol><li>Lodge <a href="https://yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/99777/widgets/459333/documents/305213" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Flying-fox Assistance Application and Subsidy Payment Request Form</a>, including quote(s) or past water bill</li><li>Council approves application or notifies applicant if unsuccessful</li><li>Landholder purchases the equipment / services after receiving Council&#39;s approval notice</li><li>Landholder provides completed invoice to Council</li><li>Council processes request and pays the Landholder into their bank account.</li></ol>Residents outside the 100m roost buffer zone who experience significant impacts due to fragmented roosts or flight paths are encouraged to apply with supporting evidence (e.g., photos and an explanation of impacts). Applicants from outside the prioritised roost buffer will be assessed on a case-by-case basis, with priority given to those most affected.Please lodge your <a href="https://yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/99777/widgets/459333/documents/305213" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Flying-fox Assistance Application and Subsidy Payment Request Form</a> to <a data-fr-linked="true" href="mailto:info@whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au">info@whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au</a> or drop into a Customer Service Centre. For more information, phone 1300 972 753.

Collinsville Flying-fox Resident Assistance Grant

Whitsunday Regional Council is delivering a new Collinsville Community Hub &mdash; a $14.6 million project proudly funded by the Queensland Government.The Hub will bring together Collinsville&rsquo;s Library, Customer Service Centre, Telecentre, Shape-Up Shed and Community Hall into one modern, efficient and welcoming facility. This new space will replace several ageing buildings and create a vibrant civic heart for the community &mdash; a place for learning, connection and local pride. View our <a href="https://yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/collinsville-community-hub" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Collinsville Community Hub and Showgrounds Masterplan consultation page</a> for more information the Master Plan.Construction is anticipated to commence early January 2026, with completion expected by early 2027, weather permitting. View our <a href="https://yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/104168/widgets/476732/documents/318947" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"></a>fact sheet for more information.<h3 data-end="987" data-start="955">Construction at a Glance</h3>The Builder will take possession of site early December, with construction fencing installed. Once fencing is installed, access to the RV park and Shape up shed will be via Railway Road and access to the Collinsville Youth Coalition will be via Pelican St.Construction will commence early January, with work hours generally from 6:30am to 6:30pm, Monday to Saturday. Residents can expect some temporary impacts such as increased construction traffic and noise during work hours.Community AccessDuring construction, community groups, meetings and events will be temporarily relocated to the Collinsville Rugby League Clubhouse, which is equipped with AV, tables, chairs and kitchen facilities.Bookings can be made through the Collinsville Customer Service Centre or by emailing <a class="decorated-link cursor-pointer" data-end="1973" data-start="1945" rel="noopener">info@whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au</a>.<h3 data-end="2005" data-start="1985">Stay Updated</h3>Stay informed as the project progresses:<ul><li data-end="2137" data-start="2051">Follow this Your Say Whitsunday page for regular construction updates and photos</li><li data-end="2211" data-start="2140">Subscribe for email notifications via the &ldquo;Follow Project&rdquo; button</li><li data-end="2296" data-start="2214">Check poster updates at the Collinsville Customer Service Centre and Library</li><li data-end="2363" data-start="2299">Follow Council on social media for milestone announcements</li></ul>

Collinsville Community Hub Construction

We&rsquo;re undertaking a project to better understand the factors contributing to social isolation among seniors in our community. The project is designed for older people aged 60 years and over and First Nations peoples aged 50 years and over who are experiencing or at risk of experiencing social isolation.Through a dedicated survey and community conversations, we aim to uncover the key drivers that impact seniors&rsquo; ability to stay socially connected and engaged. The insights gathered will help us develop practical actions and programs that foster inclusion, build stronger support networks, and create more opportunities for seniors to connect. By working together, we can ensure our region is a place where older residents feel valued, supported, and part of a vibrant, connected community. We request that community and family members assist seniors to have their say and help shape the future. Complete an online survey below or hardcopy survey via customer service centres or libraries.The project is funded by the Queensland Government.For more information, please contact our project officer Susan Evansatherton and complete a survey below:<ul><li><a data-fr-linked="true" href="mailto:susan.evansatherton@whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au">susan.evansatherton@whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au</a></li><li>0487 029 200</li></ul>

Connecting Seniors - Help us reduce social isolation

Thank you for having your say on the Whitsunday Electoral Arrangements!This consultation is now closed - we will report back to the community with consultation results and next steps.<hr> Council is seeking feedback on electoral arrangements for the next local government election in 2028, to inform whether our councillors divisions become undivided or remain in divisions.Presently, we have six divisions picking from candidates in their local area, alongside a Mayor for the region. Being &lsquo;Undivided&rsquo; means there are no divisional boundaries, and a team of Mayor &amp; Councillors are chosen by the voting public to represent the region as a whole.Currently across Queensland, 70% of local governments are undivided, with 29% Divided and 1% Multi Member Divisions.In 2022, we received feedback from the community on the preferred model, with 62% of 463 submissions favouring undivided and 38% supporting divisions. Low feedback rate and small majority resulted in a decision to make no change, until more extensive consultation could be conducted.View our<a href="https://yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/104659/widgets/478888/documents/320556" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/104697/widgets/479046/documents/320719" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">fact sheet</a> and <a href="https://www.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/Our-Council/Publications-and-Media/Latest-News/Consultation-on-Whitsunday-Electoral-Arrangements" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">media release</a> for more information. View <a href="https://yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/104697/widgets/479046/documents/321550" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Electoral Commission Queensland Maps</a> of each division within documents tab.We invite residents to learn more about each electoral models and share their feedback through our online engagement portal or via hardcopy surveys available at Customer Service Centres. Community members can also meet the project team and discuss ideas at upcoming consultation events:<ul><li>Whitsunday Plaza, Cannonvale &ndash; Thursday 22 January, 12pm &ndash; 5pm</li><li>Collinsville IGA &ndash; Wednesday 28 January, 10am &ndash; 2pm</li><li>Proserpine Freshfields &ndash; Friday 30 January, 9am &ndash; 1pm</li><li>Bowen Centrepoint Plaza &ndash; Thursday 29 January 12pm &ndash; 4pm</li></ul>

Whitsunday Electoral Arrangements

Thank you for having your say on the Galbraith Park Master Plan!This consultation is now closed - we will report back to the community with consultation results and next steps.<hr> We are developing a <a href="https://yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/104208/widgets/476950/documents/319554" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Galbraith Park Master Plan</a>, that integrates the proposed Cannonvale Community Hub and defines our aspirations for the central park to be delivered in stages over the next 10 - 15 years. Galbraith Park and the proposed Cannonvale Community Hub sit at the heart of our growth corridor, strategically positioned at the crossroads of open space, movement and future development. View our<a href="https://yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/104208/widgets/476950/documents/319133" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> fact sheet</a> for more information.The Park Master Plan builds upon Landcare&#39;s legacy, creating parks within a park, with places for people to gather, play, discover and care for its unique biodiversity.The new Community Hub in Galbraith Park is supported by $15M in grant funding from the Federal Government&rsquo;s Growing Regions Program. The Hub is scheduled to commence construction from mid 2026, to open late 2027.We invite residents to learn more about the Plan and have their say via the survey below or hardcopy at customer service centres. Residents may meet the project team to learn more or share ideas at upcoming consultation events:<ul><li>Whitsunday Shopping Centre - Thursday 20 November 2025 - 12pm - 5pm</li><li>Whitsunday Plaza Shopping Centre (in Council customer service centre) - Thursday 27 November 2025 - 11am - 4pm</li></ul>

Galbraith Park Master Plan - Our Future CBD Park!

The<a href="https://yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/101803/widgets/467181/documents/312772" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> draft Airlie Beach Masterplan</a> sets a bold vision for our next generation of experiences, envisioning catalyst projects, public space upgrades and inspiring private investment in the lead-up to the 2032 Olympics and beyond.The draft <a href="https://yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/101803/widgets/467181/documents/312772" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Masterplan </a>responds to community feedback on issues like shade, parking, Foreshore activation, pedestrian comfort, event and market space infrastructure, and transforming Airlie Creek into an inviting public space.The study area is split into precincts, covering all areas between Shingley Beach to Whitsunday Sportspark.Help shape the <a href="https://yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/101803/widgets/467181/documents/312772" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">draft Masterplan</a> by sharing your insights on our vision, prioritise proposed public space enhancements and share further ideas to refine proposed projects via the online survey below or complete a <a href="https://yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/101803/widgets/467181/documents/312774" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">hardcopy survey</a> in Library and Customer service centres. Review the draft <a href="https://yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/101803/widgets/467181/documents/312772" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Masterplan </a>and associated <a href="https://yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/101803/widgets/467181/documents/312332" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">fact sheet </a>online or in customer service centres.To learn more, we welcome your attendance at upcoming consultation events to gather context for the project and share ideas:<ul><li>Information stall &ndash; Whitsunday Shopping Centre (Coles) - Tuesday 22 July - 12pm - 5pm</li><li>Information stall &ndash; Airlie Beach Reef Festival &ndash; Saturday 2 August 2025 - 7am - 2pm</li></ul>Student Arts Trail CompetitionWe are calling on student&#39;s creative spark to help us develop a future arts trail within public spaces, such as the Foreshore, Main Street or future Airlie Creek pedestrian pathway. Consider artworks that promote Airlie Beach - like murals, sculpture, unique habitat / landscaping design, or interpretive signage that might describe and connect people to our culture, natural ecosystem or history.Complete an <a href="https://yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/101803/widgets/467181/documents/312643" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">application form</a> during the consultation period and submit for your chance to win a $50 voucher for the Proserpine Entertainment Centre. Submit via email to <a data-fr-linked="true" href="mailto:yoursay@whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au">yoursay@whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au</a> or in person at Library and Customer Service Centres.<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/h_P4F8jKhNI?si=tuAfxmLxavW0z7L4" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable"></iframe>

Airlie Beach Masterplan - Be a part of the vision!

Thank you for having your say on the Airlie Beach Ferris Wheel!This consultation is now closed - we will report back to the community with consultation results and next steps.<hr> Since its commencement on 30 May 2025, more than 50,000 locals and visitors have enjoyed the Ferris Wheel&rsquo;s unique 360&deg; views of Conway National Park, the islands, and the turquoise waters of Airlie Bay.As we approach the end of the Ferris Wheels 5-month trial, we are seeking feedback on the value of the attraction and whether it should return in future years with the decision guided by its contribution to the charm of Airlie Beach as experienced by residents, local businesses, and visitors. View our <a href="https://yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/103276/widgets/474242/documents/317311" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">fact sheet</a> for more information on Ferris Wheel ridership and the process ahead.Recent consultations have highlighted a strong community desire for more family activities, mainland tourist attractions, and ways to boost the vibrancy of our entertainment hubs. In response, Council facilitated the Ferris Wheel trial by granting a temporary five-month licence. Its return, outside of storm season in 2026, will be subject to community sentiment.Have your say on the Ferris Wheel, including your experiences, benefits, as well as suggestions for alternate locations or design considerations that may mitigate any concerns.

Airlie Beach Ferris Wheel - Share your experience!

Consultation is now closed:We thank the community for having their say on the proposed Whitsunday Planning Scheme 2017 Short-term Accommodation Amendment. Consultation is now closed while we undertake submission analysis. We will close the loop with consultation results to project followers and submitters soon. <hr>We are proposing <a href="https://yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/98531/widgets/454716/documents/310750" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">amendments to the Whitsunday Planning Scheme 2017</a> relating to Short-term accommodation, and we want to hear from you!Our Region is a popular destination for visitors, many of whom choose holiday home-style accommodations, which can conflict with permanent residents, from an amenity and housing supply perspective.To refine the balance of managing diverse visitor accommodation options and resident impacts, Council intend amend the Whitsunday Regional Council Planning Scheme 2017 to include additional assessment benchmarks for Short-term accommodation within dwellings in the Low density residential zone. The benchmarks aim to:<ul><li>Identify 10 precincts where Short-term accommodation may be supported in the Low density residential zone, removing support in all other locations zoned Low density residential - see <a href="https://yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/98531/widgets/454716/documents/310744" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">proposed precinct maps</a> or <a href="https://mapping.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/connect/analyst/mobile/#/main?mapcfg=STA%20Planning%20Amendment%20-%20Public%20Consultation" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">online mapping</a></li><li>It applies to Short-term accommodation (STA) within a Dwelling, Dual occupancy or Multiple dwelling, defined as:</li></ul>&lsquo;The use of one or two, existing or proposed Dwellings for short-term accommodation for tourists for a temporary period of time not exceeding three consecutive months.&rsquo;View an exerpt of the <a href="https://yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/98531/widgets/454716/documents/310751" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">proposed amendment</a>, <a href="https://yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/98531/widgets/454716/documents/310750" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">fact sheets</a> and <a href="https://yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/98531/widgets/454716/documents/310744" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">STA precinct mapping </a>for more information.<a href="https://www.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/economic-development-business-and-planning/building-and-development/planning/whitsunday-planning-scheme-2017" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> View the full Planning Scheme here</a>.Have your say on the proposed amendment by completing a <a href="https://yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/98531/widgets/454716/documents/310752" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">&#39;properly made submission</a>&#39; by 20 July 2025. A properly made submission must be made:<ul><li>online via a registered account on Yoursay - via the online survey below</li><li>in writing to Council, by mail or in person to a Customer Service Centre</li><li>email to planning.submissions@whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au, including the name and address of each person who is making the submission.</li></ul>Visit our team to learn more at an upcoming information stall:<ul><li>Whitsunday Shopping Centre (Cannonvale) Thursday 12 June 2pm - 5:30pm</li><li>Airlie Beach Markets - Saturday 21 June 7am - 12pm</li><li>Bowen Centrepoint Shopping Centre - Thursday 26 June - 12pm - 4pm</li><li>Dingo Beach Sunday Markets - Sunday 6 July 7am -12pm</li></ul><iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/t-mahdwTNm8?&wmode=opaque&rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable"></iframe>

Have your say - Short-term Accommodation Amendment

Help us shape the future of the <a href="https://yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/98967/widgets/456390/documents/305029" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bowen Foreshore Masterplan</a>!<a href="https://yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/98967/widgets/456390/documents/304934" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"></a><a href="https://yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/98967/widgets/456390/documents/305029" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bowen Foreshore Masterplan</a> is a critical component of Bowen&rsquo;s growth strategy, guiding the design and development of successful projects that will benefit the community for generations to come. It sets an aspirational vision for the Bowen Foreshore, to inspire private investment and define priorities for staged delivery of public space upgrades that enhance vibrancy and liveability over 15+ years.View the draft <a href="https://yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/98967/widgets/456390/documents/305029" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bowen Foreshore Masterplan</a> and our <a href="https://yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/98967/widgets/456390/documents/304935" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">fact sheet</a> for more information.The plan is timely, seeking to leverage flow on benefits from the $68M Bowen Wharf renewal project led by North Queensland Bulk Ports. Council&rsquo;s role is to share the draft Masterplan as an investment prospectus, collaborate with interested parties and implement priority actions, defined by community consultation, upcoming asset renewals and grant funding opportunities.Help shape the draft Masterplan by sharing your insights via the online survey below or attend upcoming consultation events, including:<table style="width: 71%; margin-right: calc(29%);"><tbody><tr><td style="width: 34.3134%; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;">Community information workshop </td><td style="width: 21.1611%; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;">Bowen PCYC </td><td style="width: 44.3932%; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;">Thursday 27 March 2025 5:30pm - 6:30pm </td></tr><tr><td style="width: 34.3134%; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;">Bowen Markets information stall </td><td style="width: 21.1611%; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;">Hansen Park </td><td style="width: 44.3932%; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;">Sunday 30 March 2025 - 7am - 12pm (rescheduled to Sunday 13 April due to weather)</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 34.3134%; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;">Centrepoint Plaza Information Stall</td><td style="width: 21.1611%; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;">Cnr Soldier Rd &amp; Richmond Road</td><td style="width: 44.3932%; vertical-align: middle; text-align: left;">Thursday 3 April - 12pm - 4:30pm </td></tr></tbody></table>

Re-imagining Bowen’s Foreshore – Be part of the Plan!

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