The Capricorn Coast, Southern Great Barrier Reef in Central Queensland has long been shaped by pioneers — individuals and families who took bold steps to turn their visions into thriving businesses that showcase the heart and soul of our region. But now, a new generation is rising.

These are the sons and daughters who've grown up among wild landscapes, fresh produce, crocodiles, caves, tea rooms, and tides. They've inherited more than just a business — they've inherited a deep sense of place, a pride in their community, and a drive to shape the future.

From the sand-swept shores of Stanage Bay to the rainforest edges of Byfield, meet the next-gen characters of the Capricorn Coast region — continuing the legacy, reimagining the possibilities, and often working hand-in-hand with the trailblazers who came before them.

Adam Lever – Koorana Crocodile Farm

Born into a business where ancient reptiles rule the land, Adam Lever is proudly continuing the legacy of his parents, John and Lillian Lever, who founded Koorana Crocodile Farm in the 1980s — Australia's first commercial crocodile farm. With a deep respect for the crocs and the land they inhabit, Adam brings modern flair and tourism know-how to the operation. Today, he works alongside his parents, ensuring the farm remains both thrilling and sustainable while educating visitors about these prehistoric creatures.

Kylie Smith – Keppel Bay Marina

With salt in her veins and a lifelong connection to the sea, Kylie Smith is continuing the proud stewardship of Keppel Bay Marina, built and established by her parents, Richard and Libby Wilson. Now General Manager, Kylie has helped transform the precinct into a vibrant lifestyle and tourism hub — home to award-winning The Waterline Restaurant, which she operates alongside her husband and chef, Matt. Kylie continues to work closely with her parents, blending innovation with family traditions and helping to position the marina as a gateway to unforgettable coastal adventures.

John Augusteyn – Capricorn Caves

The story of the Capricorn Caves is one of legacy, leadership, and a deep love for the 'above ground' world — a story championed by the late Ann and Ken Augusteyn, who purchased the property in 1988 and turned it into one of Queensland's most iconic nature-based attractions. Today, their son John Augusteyn carries on the family vision with pride. While Ken was known as a jack-of-all-trades and Ann a pioneer in eco-tourism, John now leads the award-winning operation, continuing their commitment to accessibility, conservation, and immersive storytelling.

Max Allen Jnr – Freedom Fast Cats

Born into a life on the water, Max Allen Jnr is proudly carrying forward the passion of his parents, Max Snr and Carmel Allen, who founded Freedom Fast Cats after relocating from Gladstone to share the magic of the Keppel Islands. Today, Max Jnr works alongside his parents, captaining vessels, and serving as the Capricorn Coast's only Master Reef Guide — educating visitors on marine life and championing reef conservation for future generations.

Kieron Smedley – Cooberrie Park Wildlife Sanctuary

Wildlife isn't just a passion for Kieron Smedley — it's his family's legacy. When his parents, Dave and Sue Smedley, purchased Cooberrie Park over two decades ago, the sanctuary was on the brink of closure. Since then, it has flourished under their care. Kieron, who grew up surrounded by native animals, now works alongside his parents to lead the park's next chapter — one focused on conservation, inclusivity, and unforgettable encounters with Australia's unique wildlife.

Brad Haynes – Plumtree Store, Stanage Bay

At the end of a rugged coastal road lies Stanage Bay, and at its heart is the Plumtree Store, run by the Haynes family. This beloved outpost has long welcomed campers, fishermen, and adventurous travellers with supplies, seafood, and stories. Brad works alongside his parents, Bevan and Maree, ensuring the store remains the beating heart of the community — a place where hospitality and history go hand in hand.

Shae O'Reilly – High Valley Dawn Permaculture Farm

A passionate advocate for regenerative living and self-sufficiency, Shae O'Reilly is co-creating a thriving permaculture hub at High Valley Dawn Permaculture Farm, alongside his father, Ross O'Reilly — a respected leader in sustainable farming. Together, they are cultivating a space for workshops, events, and hands-on experiences that celebrate the land's rhythms and the values of earth care, people care, and fair share.

Isabelle (Izzy) Marxsen – Lure Living

With a flair for styling, storytelling, and coastal culture, Isabelle (Izzy) Marxsen has proudly taken over Lure Living, the popular beachfront coffee shop and lifestyle space originally founded by her parents, Cindy and Glen Marxsen. Since Izzy and her sister Rachel became owners in 2023, they've elevated Lure into a fully licensed venue — blending café culture with evening dining, live music, trivia nights, and coastal-inspired workshops. Izzy's vision ensures Lure Living continues to shine as a beloved gathering spot, offering beachside charm, thoughtful design, and community spirit from sunrise to sunset.

Matt Ousten – Poinciana Tourist Park & Seaspray Health and Fitness

Matt Ousten is a driving force behind two well-loved community assets: Poinciana Tourist Park and Seaspray Health & Fitness Centre. Working alongside his father, Bill Ousten, Matt helps deliver top-quality accommodation and active lifestyle services that reflect the Capricorn Coast's love for the outdoors, wellness, and family-friendly travel.

Lauren Myors – St Aubins Village

Lauren Myors, alongside her parents Janice and Brian Dawson, lovingly own and operate St Aubins Village, a heritage-listed estate in West Rockhampton originally built circa 1889 by master brickmaker Johann (John) Rodekirchen—who operated one of Rockhampton's earliest clay pits and brickmaking works on-site. The Dawsons acquired the property in June 2017, following Lauren's own wedding there in October 2016. Since then, they've embarked on a sensitive restoration: reviving cottages, heritage gardens, and the original brickworks legacy. Now a vibrant family-run venue, Lauren works closely with her parents to host weddings, events, garden teas and tours.

Hannah White – Riverston Tea Rooms

Set in a grand 19th-century heritage building in Rockhampton's heart, Riverston Tea Rooms are a family-run treasure. Hannah White, with her warmth and hospitality, has brought a contemporary edge to this much-loved venue. Working alongside her parents, Jim and Maria White, who reside above the café in the historic Queensland National Bank building, Hannah blends old-world charm with modern flavours — creating a space where visitors feel right at home.

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