Finalists at the Australian Tourism Awards

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.

Making it to the finals in this category at the 2025 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards in Fremantle on Saturday night, 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.

Whitsunday Escape General Manager, Jaclyn Watson, said it was the company’s extensive briefing and support systems that gave 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.”

Trevor said notwithstanding 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 from Saturday’s awards.

“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.

“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 will now sail into the sunset with his wife Julie on their own boat ‘Escape Artist’, with Jaclyn to take the reins from the new financial year.