As the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the magnificent 74 Whitsunday Islands, the Whitsunday region has one of the fastest growing populations in Queensland. Boasting a strong and diverse economy driven by the agriculture, construction, mining and tourism industries, the Whitsunday region has the potential to become the economic powerhouse of North Queensland. The Whitsunday region encompasses a total land area of 23,862 square kilometres and includes the major townships of Airlie Beach, Bowen, Cannonvale, Collinsville and Proserpine, with numerous rural and coastal communities and residential areas scattered throughout the area. The Bruce Highway is the major transport corridor running north-south through the region, to Mackay in the south and Townsville in the north. The Whitsunday region is home to approximately 35,500 permanent residents. Due to the strength of the local economy, the region’s population is expected to grow at an annual rate of 2.3 per cent over the next 20 years, which exceeds the State average of 1.8 per cent. Whitsunday Regional Council’s strategic direction is determined by the Mayor and Councillors, in consultation with the community. Our leadership team provides advice to the Mayor and Councillors and is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day management of the organisation.