Whitsunday Airport officially opened

If we build it, they will come.

Whitsunday Mayor Mike Brunker, Member for Whitsunday Jan Jarratt and Acting Premier Andrew Fraser.

This was Acting Premier Andrew Fraser’s message to the community at the official celebration marking the completion of the $7 million airport upgrade.

Flanked by Member for Whitsunday and Tourism Minister Jan Jarratt, Mayor Mike Brunker and a myriad of dignitaries, the former local boy used his speech to celebrate the massive achievements of the community and the airport staff.

"First impressions really count and this new airport with room to grow and allow for future growth will be the well springs of the Whitsundays’ vital tourism industry," Acting Premier Andrew Fraser said.

"This re-development which is on the doorstep of a beautiful region, really puts the region’s best foot forward," he said.

Member for Whitsunday Jan Jarratt said she was really proud to welcome "local boy" Andrew Fraser back into the community he grew up amongst.

"We never lost sight of this vision and it has been worth the fight. There were some doubters but it was never me, Andrew or Mike. I want to thank each and every member of the community for having faith," she said.

"I cannot overstate how important first impressions are and this is fantastic. I have to thank the council and the workers," she said.

Mayor Mike Brunker opened his speech with his gratitude to council, staff and workers at the airport.

"This is the jewel in the crown to our region. The upgrade has battled floods, two cyclones and an earthquake, so it’s a bit delayed but the fact that it is complete is a real credit to the people on the ground," Mr Brunker said.

Fly in fly out options were discussed as was increasing the number of flights in and out of the airport.

"The sky’s the limit now," Cr Brunker said.

"It’s a remarkable achievement and we’re only going to get bigger and better."