Our Story
Greater Whitsunday Innovation located in Mackay was founded in 2016 as a not-for-profit co-working and innovations hub with office spaces, meeting rooms, and events to cater to entrepreneurs in the Mackay, Isaac, and Whitsunday region.
Greater Whitsunday Innovation has expanded considerably over the years and has gone from being a few rooms and programs to Mackay's thriving co-working hub and events space. We are a diverse values-driven community filled with startups, small businesses, innovators, creatives, and entrepreneurs.
Throughout the year, we host a range of events and deliver entrepreneurial programs to startup founders, businesses, and schools. We have a range of spaces available to hire such as meeting rooms and workshop spaces, along with our co-working office space, a video and recording studio
Our Vision
A thriving Greater Whitsunday Region empowered by innovative, digitally-enable businesses driving regional growth and creating future-ready opportunities.
Community
We bring a diverse range of people together for unique learning experiences and provide opportunities for businesses to mentor, volunteer or give back to the community.
Innovation
We collaboratively drive and deliver innovation and entrepreneurial growth to the region. We host range of events and provide programs, tools and resources to ignite innovation and ideas.
Collaboration
Together with our partners and stakeholders, we help support economic development initiatives and the growth of future industries in the Mackay region.
Connection
Our range of functional and accessible multipurpose spaces provide our members, local businesses and the community the opportunity to connect and engage with each other.
Our Values
These core values guide everything we do at Greater Whitsunday Innovation.
FOCUS
We channel our energy into what matters most—driving meaningful innovation for regional impact.
TENACITY
We are committed to progress, approaching every challenge with determination and purpose.
CONNECTION
We create meaningful connections across Mackay, Isaac, and Whitsundays that spark collaboration, drive innovation, and strengthen our region.
DEPENDABILITY
We show up, deliver, and stand by our commitments—trusted partners for long-term success.
RECEPTIVENESS
We listen, adapt, and evolve—welcoming new ideas and diverse perspectives that shape better outcomes.
Ready to join our community?
Take the next step in growing your business. Join Greater Whitsunday Innovation today and become part of our thriving community of entrepreneurs and innovators.
Our Team
Meet the passionate people behind Greater Whitsunday Innovation.
Ryan Norris
Director
Rod Francisco
Director
Meredith Papas
Director
Breant Neale
Director
Sherry Smith
Director
Kirra Tully
Manager
Zoe Knight
Project Officer