THE new lead regional economic development agency Enterprise Whitsundays (EW) was officially launched last Thursday in Bowen by Mayor Mike Brunker.

Guests were given the opportunity to ask questions of EW Chairman The Hon. Jim Elder, which included the recent airport announcement, Northern Missing Link rail project and moving forwards with planning and infrastructure for the region.

All responses provided by the Chairman were positive and he advised how EW will work with its principal partner the Whitsunday Regional Council (WRC) and all stakeholders to ensure opportunities are maximised and the region's potential realised.

The new EW Board of Directors met for the first time the day before the launch to determine the organisation's strategic direction, structure and governance.

EW CEO Rebecca Andrews heads up a small but dedicated team of four, working on a number of projects throughout the Whitsunday region.

The team will soon be expanded to include a Project Officer for Investment Attraction and Infrastructure Development, based in Bowen.

Ms Andrews said: “I am looking forward to the challenges that driving EW will bring.

“I feel that we are a strong, diversified region with many opportunities for growth and development.

“I congratulate the new Directors of EW and with my team look forward to working with all our stakeholders to advance the Whitsunday region.”