Celebrating 5 Years in the Whitsundays: A Milestone Worth Sharing

This year marks something truly special for us at Travel Academy —
five amazing years of Work, Study + Play in the Whitsundays.

What began as a bold idea has grown into one of Australia’s most exciting pathways into tourism and hospitality. Recently, we took the opportunity to celebrate in the beautiful Whitsundays with the people who have made it all possible — our students past and present, our passionate team, and our incredible partners.

A Journey Powered by People

Five years in the Whitsundays means five years of stories, sunrises, new beginnings and real careers. It also means five years of gratitude for the community that has supported us from day one. Here’s what (and who) we’re celebrating:

Our Students

Hundreds of students — from every corner of Australia — who took a leap, trusted the program, packed their bags, and built a new life in paradise. Their courage, resilience, and energy have shaped the heart of Work, Study + Play.

Our Team

The program leaders, facilitators, support crew and behind-the-scenes staff who make the magic happen every single day. Their dedication is the reason students feel welcomed, supported and ready to succeed.

 Our Employment Partners

From island resorts to mainland hotels and tourism operators, these partners have opened their doors and helped launch students into meaningful, paid roles.

Over the years, our network has grown to include Daydream Island, Hamilton Island, Mirage Whitsundays, Mantra Club Croc, Club Wyndham, Cruise Whitsundays and more — with more joining in 2026. Their trust and collaboration have been essential to every student journey.

Our Adventure & Support Partners

The local operators and adventure teams who introduce our students to the best of the Whitsundays and the support crew there to guide them.
They’ve helped create friendships, memories and moments students will never forget.

Tourism Bodies & Government Partners

Tourism Whitsundays, local councils, regional operators and government supporters who have backed a program built on real skills, real jobs and real futures. These partnerships (and the belief behind them) have shaped Work, Study + Play Whitsundays into what it is today.

Five Years of Impact

In just half a decade, we’ve seen:

• Students start their first paid tourism jobs
• Graduates stay long-term in the region and continue to successful promotions
• Others take their skills interstate or overseas
• Lifelong friendships and island families formed
• Confidence, independence and careers grow from the ground up

It’s been a privilege to watch. Thank you.

The Whitsundays: Home to Our Story

The Whitsundays isn’t just a backdrop — it’s the beating heart of the program.

The islands, the reef, the people, the culture, the community… they’ve all shaped the student experience in ways that go far beyond a qualification.

This region has given us five unforgettable years — and thousands of moments to be grateful for.

Here’s to the Next Five

As we move into 2026 with new partners, new opportunities, exciting new program upgrades and continued career advancement and development in destination, we’re more committed than ever to giving students the strongest possible start in tourism and hospitality. Thank you to everyone who’s been part of the story so far.

Here’s to the next five years — and all the adventures still to come.
💙 From paradise, with gratitude.