Presented by Airbnb. Celebrating the people who help protect, inspire and champion our reef.
The Great Barrier Reef Festival Community Champion Award recognises an individual whose passion and dedication have made a lasting contribution to the Great Barrier Reef and the Whitsundays.
From protecting our natural environment and sharing knowledge through education, to inspiring sustainable practices, supporting conservation initiatives, advocating for our region, or helping others connect with the reef, this award celebrates those whose actions make a meaningful difference.
As the Great Barrier Reef Festival celebrates 25 years of honouring one of the world’s greatest natural wonders, we’re proud to introduce this annual award to recognise the people who work tirelessly to protect, preserve and promote the reef and the Whitsunday region for future generations.
Every reef needs its champions. This award celebrates ours.
Award Recognition
The recipient of the Great Barrier Reef Festival Community Champion Award will receive:
- Official recognition as the Great Barrier Reef Festival Community Champion.
- A perpetual trophy, with their name proudly engraved alongside future recipients.
- An Airbnb voucher, providing the opportunity to enjoy a well-deserved Whitsundays getaway.
- Recognition across the Great Barrier Reef Festival’s website and social media channels
Who are we looking for?
We’re looking for people whose actions have made a genuine difference to the Whitsundays. This could include someone who:
- Protects or advocates for the Great Barrier Reef and our natural environment.
- Volunteers their time to support local organisations or community initiatives.
- Inspires others through education, conservation or community leadership.
- Creates opportunities that strengthen and connect our community.
- Has consistently made a positive impact over a number of years.
You don’t need to have a long list of awards or public recognition. Often, the most deserving people are those working quietly behind the scenes.
Details
Nominees must:
- Be 18 years of age or older.
- Have lived in the Whitsunday Region for at least three years.
- Demonstrate an ongoing commitment to making a positive difference in the community.
- Have made a meaningful contribution to the Whitsundays through environmental stewardship, reef conservation, education, volunteering, community leadership, or initiatives that benefit our region.
- Not be a current Great Barrier Reef Festival Committee member.
Individuals may be nominated by a member of the public, organisation or community group. Self-nominations are also welcome.
Judging
Eligible nominations will be assessed by an independent judging panel using the following criteria:
- Community impact.
- Contribution to the Great Barrier Reef, environment or Whitsundays.
- Volunteerism and commitment.
- Leadership and ability to inspire others.
- Longevity and consistency of contribution
Award Presentation
The inaugural Great Barrier Reef Festival Community Champion will be announced during the 2026 Great Barrier Reef Festival.
The recipient will receive official recognition as the Great Barrier Reef Festival Community Champion, a commemorative trophy, and be celebrated across the Festival’s media and communication channels.
“Airbnb is proud to partner with the Great Barrier Reef Festival and support the incredible volunteers who make this event possible for all those who attend from near and far. Airbnb hosts are locals who want to help people explore and enjoy the best their community has to offer, and we hope our support will help more people celebrate and enjoy what makes this festival such a special event.”
said Susan Wheeldon, Country Manager of Airbnb Australia and New Zealand.