Australian Tourism Awards
After taking home Gold for Unique Accommodation at the 2025 Queensland Tourism Awards, Whitsunday Escape represented Queensland on the national stage as a finalist in the same category at the 2025 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards. The awards were held at Fremantle Prison in Western Australia on Friday 6 March 2026.
It was also a night to celebrate a remarkable career.
25 Years at the Helm
When Trevor Rees first took the helm at a small rental boat business in Airlie Beach, little did he know he’d be walking into retirement some 25 years later, having transformed Whitsunday Escape into one of Australia’s premier unique accommodation providers.
Standing among the nation’s best tourism operators in Fremantle, Trevor was understandably emotional.
“Standing on this platform at the end of my working life, I feel incredibly honoured to have helped introduce an entire generation of travellers to the magic of a truly extraordinary accommodation and boating experience, blending transport, immersion in nature, escapism, maritime lifestyle and the amenities of home, in a destination as globally iconic as The Whitsundays,” he said.
Freedom, With Support
Whitsunday Escape General Manager Jaclyn Watson said the company’s extensive briefing and support systems give charterers the chance to explore the World Heritage-listed Whitsunday Islands and Great Barrier Reef Marine Park at their own pace, without the need for a captain or crew.
“Whether an experienced sailor or simply a boating enthusiast, we ensure all our guests are fully prepared before heading out, knowing that every challenge brings increased confidence, and every sunset feels earned,” she said.
“It’s a unique blend of adventure, self-reliance, natural beauty and pure freedom, where your vessel becomes both your home and transport, where no two days are the same, and where unlike traditional tours or cruises, you’re in control yet fully supported and far from alone.”
In Exceptional Company
Trevor said that despite his team’s dedication, operational excellence and belief in an outstanding product, competition for the title of Australia’s best unique accommodation provider was always tough, and he commended all of the winners and finalists on the night.
“Over the past 25 years it has been a privilege to represent Whitsunday Escape, the marine tourism industry, and The Whitsundays, at many local, state and national awards, where I have always been in exceptional company,” he said.
A New Chapter for Whitsunday Escape
“Being a nationally recognised industry leader also comes with responsibility for promoting our region, and as I now pass the baton to our GM, Jaclyn, it is Whitsunday Escape’s ongoing mission to help position The Whitsundays as Australia’s leading sailing destination to the 2032 Olympics and beyond.”
Trevor is now sailing into the sunset with his wife Julie aboard their own boat, Escape Artist, and Jaclyn took the reins at the start of the 2026–27 financial year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Was Whitsunday Escape a finalist at the Australian Tourism Awards?
Yes. Whitsunday Escape was a national finalist in the Unique Accommodation category at the 2025 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards, held in Fremantle, Western Australia, on 6 March 2026.
How did Whitsunday Escape qualify for the Australian Tourism Awards?
Whitsunday Escape won Gold for Unique Accommodation at the 2025 Queensland Tourism Awards, which earned it a place representing Queensland at the national awards.
Who leads Whitsunday Escape?
Jaclyn Watson is General Manager of Whitsunday Escape. She took over leadership from long-time director Trevor Rees, who retired after 25 years with the company.
Do I need a captain or crew to charter with Whitsunday Escape?
No. Whitsunday Escape specialises in skipper-yourself bareboat charters. Every guest receives a full briefing before departure, with support from the base throughout the charter.
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