SeaLink Whitsundays stands up to domestic violence through Dancing CEOs initiative

SeaLink Whitsundays stands up to domestic violence through Dancing CEOs initiative
Edited by Travel Weekly


SeaLink Whitsundays is taking part in the 2025 Dancing CEOs initiative, with BDM Julie Telford joining ‘Team Whitsundays’ to support Women’s Legal Service Queensland (WLSQ) and raise funds for women and children affected by domestic and family violence.

Telford is part of a team of prominent local women, including Kate Purdie from Coral Sea Marina, Candice Crossley from Whitsunday Transit, and Alice Harriott from Whitsunday Family Dental. Together, they make up the first-ever Whitsundays team to participate in this major fundraising event.

“I’m incredibly excited to be part of such an inspiring team of strong, powerful women who are coming together to make a difference,” Telford said.

“This cause is close to my heart, and I look forward to working alongside my teammates to help women and children in need. Together, we have the power to create real change and unite our community for this important cause.”

Together with her husband, Asher, Telford co-founded Red Cat Adventures and owned Whitsunday Jetski Tours, both of which were acquired by SeaLink Marine & Tourism in February 2024.

Having made the Whitsundays their home for over 20 years, Julie and Asher are also raising their three children in the region. Her participation in the Dancing CEOs campaign reflects her ongoing commitment to supporting the community and fostering safe, supportive environments for those in need.

The Team Whitsundays members will begin practising their dance routines in the coming weeks, all while preparing for the much-anticipated gala event in March 2025. Leading up to the gala, Team Whitsundays will host several events, including a fundraising walk, to gather support and donations for WLSQ’s vital services.

Funds raised through Team Whitsundays’ efforts will go towards WLSQ programs, including the Financial Abuse Prevention Program, legal advice clinics, and community education sessions that address the diverse needs of women affected by domestic and family violence. Team Whitsundays aims to raise over $41,000 in support of WLSQ.

To kick-start their fundraising, Team Whitsundays is hosting several community events:

  • Christmas Cocktails for a Cause – Friday, 6 December 2024
  • Fundraising Gala – Saturday, 15 March 2025
  • Epic Walk for Domestic Violence – Sunday, 30 March 2025

Team Whitsundays is calling on local businesses, residents, and supporters to get involved through donations, sponsorships, or by attending these fantastic events to help break the cycle of violence. For more information visit the Team Whitsundays Fundraising Page.

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