Footage can be found HERE.

Queensland-based travel and wildlife photographer Mark Fitz took a scenic helicopter flight from Airlie Beach yesterday to share a real-time snapshot of The Whitsundays with his 108,000 Instagram followers. 

The post shows picture-perfect tropical settings, blue skies and ideal snorkelling conditions in the popular Great Barrier Reef holiday destination.

“I got to see the most incredible views of Hill Inlet and the iconic Heart Reef from the helicopter and it was just beautiful”, Fitz said of his trip on Monday.

“Blue skies, blue waters ….  It was a real highlight. I've been to Hill Inlet 50 times and I never get sick of it. It looked so good (yesterday).”

Tourism Whitsundays CEO Rick Hamilton said there is still availability over the peak summer holiday period for a raft of holiday styles and budgets.

“The Whitsundays is ready for Summer holidays with all the best accommodation options and experiences available on tourismwhitsundays.com.au.

“We are currently experiencing average temperatures of 30 degrees Celsius, some overnight showers and sunshine during the day. The rains have given everything a green boost just in time for Christmas holidaymakers to enjoy. The sun is out during the day and the water is a signature blue.

Reflecting on his visit yesterday, Mr Fitz said his heart went out to the people of Cairns some 600km north of his home base.

“I've been through a similar experience in Townsville during 2019 floods when my house got flooded and I can really sympathise with what they (the residents in Cairns) are going through. It's a horrible experience and when the time is right, we really need to support those guys (by getting up there and visiting).”

“But Queensland is a huge state and I'm looking out the window here in Airlie Beach and everything is fine. The weather is fine, the water is brilliant and we have these amazing tourism operators ready to provide visitors an amazing experience.”

For more Whitsundays holiday options, please see: tourismwhitsundays.com.au

ENDS

Notes to editors:

Footage from Mark Fitz visit to The Whitsundays can be found HERE. Please credit @_markfitz

Accommodation availability in The Whitsundays currently includes:  

• Economy studio room at Discovery Parks Airlie Beach for two people for $702 for four nights from December 23 – 27, 2023
• Bowen Holiday Park Ensuite Powered Site will set you back $2000 for up to six people from December 23 – 27, 2023.
• Daydream Island Resort has rooms available for $450/night from 7th January, 2024 Check the website.
• Reef sleep has availability today and December 29 and 30. And then from January 1.
• Families should look to Mirage – ideal for family. 2br delux apart Mirage – 7 – 12 is $3425. Sleeps four.