Council has adopted the Airlie Beach Precinct Master Plan, establishing a long-term roadmap for Airlie Beach that balances tourism, community use and economic growth as part of a coordinated, region-wide planning approach.
The Master Plan was adopted at the same Council meeting as the Galbraith Park Master Plan, reinforcing Council’s commitment to coordinated, place-based planning across the region’s key community and visitor precincts.
The Airlie Beach Precinct Master Plan provides a strategic roadmap for how Airlie Beach can evolve over time by enhancing the foreshore, improving connections, supporting events and tourism, and unlocking future investment opportunities while protecting the character that has made Airlie Beach the economic and social heart of the Whitsundays.
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said Airlie Beach plays a central role in the region’s economy and identity, making thoughtful long-term planning essential.
“Airlie Beach is a key gateway for visitors and one of Queensland’s most recognised coastal destinations,” Mayor Collins said.
“This Master Plan is about making sure Airlie Beach continues to thrive in a way that supports locals, businesses and the broader region, both now and into the future.”
The plan outlines a staged approach to renewal and enhancement across key precincts, including the foreshore, lagoon, parklands, Main Street connections and Waterson Way.
Proposed initiatives include improved public spaces, family-friendly recreation, stronger pedestrian and cycle connectivity, event-ready parklands and opportunities to unlock future private investment that complements the public realm.
Mayor Collins said it was important for the community to understand the Master Plan is a strategic framework, not a construction schedule.
“This is a roadmap for the future. Not everything in this plan will happen quickly, and not everything will be delivered at once,” he said.
“The value of a Master Plan is that it gives Council, investors and the community a shovel ready direction so when opportunities, funding or partnerships arise, we’re ready to act.”
The Airlie Beach Precinct Master Plan will now guide future planning, investment attraction and project prioritisation across Council and partner agencies.
Mayor Collins said the plan also strengthens Airlie Beach’s role as a leading events and tourism destination.
“Airlie Beach already punches well above its weight when it comes to tourism, events and global recognition,” he said.
“This plan helps future-proof that success and positions the Whitsundays strongly as the home of Olympic sailing in the lead-up to 2032 and beyond.”
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