The Friendly Bay Islander
2025 Bay Islander of the Year Award
The Bay Islander of the Year award recognises the Bay Islander who best demonstrates “community spirit and involvement” the Friendly Bay Islander has been sponsoring this award for 10 years, the award is presented by Redland Council Division 5 Councillor, Cr Shane Rendalls on Australia Day.
This year (2025) The Bay Islander of the Year was presented to Chris McGregor of Bay Islands Property for the following reasons:
Social Contributions: Enhancing Cultural and Community Cohesion
Chris McGregor has been instrumental in nurturing the social fabric of Southern Moreton Bay, exemplified by his significant support for local arts and events. His leadership in sponsoring key cultural activities like the Karragarra Island Sea Market and Tide Festival, along with supporting the Canaipa Amateur Theatrical Society, has not only preserved but invigorated the community’s cultural scene. These initiatives provide vital cultural enrichment, ensuring the continuation of community traditions and the arts, which are essential for the social well-being of the islands.
Community Contributions: Building a Connected and Supported Community
Chris’s impact extends deeply into the realm of community development and support. As a pivotal figure in the construction of a second mobile tower on Russell Island, he has directly contributed to improving community infrastructure, thereby enhancing daily communications and emergency responsiveness. His presidency at the Chamber of Commerce was marked by proactive engagement in community growth and infrastructure improvement, significantly boosting the local economy and quality of life for residents.
Economic Contributions: Fostering Economic Stability and Growth
Through his leadership at Bay Islands Property and involvement with the Chamber of Commerce, Chris has directly influenced the economic landscape of Southern Moreton Bay. His initiatives, such as the significant financial support for the Island Economic Study, have helped shape strategic development plans that bolster local businesses and attract investment, driving sustainable economic growth.
Personal Commitment: Mentorship and Direct Support
Beyond his public endeavours, Chris demonstrates a profound personal commitment to the well-being of his community members. His approachable nature and readiness to provide support manifest in his open-door policy for those in distress, offering a listening ear and critical support when most needed. Additionally, his innovative community-building initiatives, like sponsoring the Russell Island Poker Club, create important social networks that foster mental health and communal support.
Conclusion: A Pillar of Community Excellence
Chris McGregor’s comprehensive contributions to Southern Moreton Bay go beyond professional success; they encapsulate a heartfelt dedication to improving lives and enhancing community bonds. His nomination for the Australia Day Award is a recognition of his unwavering commitment to community spirit and involvement, highlighting his role as not just a business leader but a community champion whose actions have profoundly impacted the lives of many in Southern Moreton Bay.
Testimonials for Chris McGregor
Queensland Government Member of Parliament
I have had the pleasure of knowing Chris McGregor both professionally and personally over the years, and I can confidently say that he is an outstanding contributor to the Southern Moreton Bay Islands (SMBI) community. As a past President of the SMBI Chamber of Commerce, Chris has demonstrated exceptional leadership, fostering growth and unity among local businesses. His dedication goes far beyond his professional role; as a prominent business owner, he consistently supports local arts, sporting clubs, and schools with remarkable generosity. Chris’s unwavering commitment to the SMBI community is truly inspiring and a testament to his passion for making the islands a better place for everyone.
Rebecca Young
State Member for Redlands
Assistant Minister to the Deputy Premier, State Development, Housing and Government Regulation
SMBI Business Leader
As the President of the SMBI Chamber of Commerce, I have had the distinct pleasure of witnessing firsthand Chris McGregor’s exceptional contributions to the Southern Moreton Bay Islands community. Chris is a business leader and a pivotal force in advancing the collective prosperity and interconnectivity of Russell, Macleay, Karragarra, and Lamb Islands.
Chris’s commitment to the islands goes beyond professional duty. He is deeply invested in the lives of the people here—whether they are youths seeking direction, seniors needing support, or artists looking for a platform to express themselves. His involvement spans a broad spectrum from arts and economics to politics, always with a focus on fostering a collaborative and thriving island community.
His unquenchable thirst for giving and participation is evident in every initiative he supports. More than just a contributor, Chris is often the first to volunteer, whether offering sage advice, assisting in community projects, or funding strategic social initiatives. His actions are not motivated by recognition but by a genuine desire to see our community flourish.
Chris is a cornerstone of our community, a mentor to many, and a friend to all. He is always there when needed, consistently putting the needs of the islands and their residents first. His enduring commitment and selfless acts of kindness make him a true ambassador for the SMBI.
For these reasons and countless more, Chris McGregor truly deserves to be honoured with Australia Day honours. His leadership elevates our business community and enriches our lives, making our islands a better place for everyone.
Dan Grolin
President SMBI Chamber of Commerce
Macleay Island Business Owner
I have had the pleasure of knowing Chris McGregor both professionally and personally over the years, and I can confidently say that he is an outstanding contributor to the Southern Moreton Bay Islands (SMBI) community. As a past President of the SMBI Chamber of Commerce, Chris has demonstrated exceptional leadership, fostering growth and unity among local businesses. His dedication goes far beyond his professional role; as a prominent business owner, he consistently supports local arts, sporting clubs, and schools with remarkable generosity. Chris’s unwavering commitment to the SMBI community is truly inspiring and a testament to his passion for making the islands a better place for everyone. Rebecca Young State Member for Redlands Assistant Minister to the Deputy Premier, State Development, Housing and Government Regulation
I have delt with Chris McGregor on a professional level for the past three years. I have always found him honest and reliable in our dealings. Chris deserves to be recognized for the many generous donations and sponsorships he makes the various local events and groups, he is always willing to help.
Robyn Freeman, Owner Emerald Ise Shopping Centre
Bay Islands Business Owner
I have known Chris for 5 and a half years since we bought our first house on the islands. Since then he has become a member of our close circle of friends. He is extremely generous in giving back to the community in many aspects. He has been the major sponsor of the SMBI Garden Competition since its inception. I know that he has been equally as generous with several other community organisations and events. I wholeheartedly support his nomination for the FBI Australia Day Award
Damon Kendrick Convenor, SMBI Garden Competition
Bay Islands Business & Community Leader
Chris McGregor is one of the most generous and community-minded people I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. I will list a few ways in which Chris helps; however, there are many more.
He has been the main sponsor of the Canaipa Amateur Dramatics Society since they formed 18 months ago. For the last three years, he has donated six laptops to graduating students at Macleay and Russell Island State Primary Schools. He donates funds to Breast Cancer through the Macleay Golf Club. Chris also loves nature on the islands and donates signs to the community to heighten awareness about where Curlews are nesting. Chris also donates his marquee out to several organisations to help with their fund-raising events throughout the year.
The community is lucky to have Chris McGregor.
Lisa Brett,Senior sales Associate & Resident of Russell Island
Performer, Canaipa Amateur Dramatics Society
Business Expert – Media & Marketing
Chris McGregor is an exemplary member of the Bay Islands community who consistently demonstrates outstanding community spirit and involvement. His dedication to local initiatives, unwavering commitment to helping others, and passion for the betterment of the Bay Islands make him a worthy candidate for this recognition. Chris embodies the values that this award seeks to celebrate.”
Kyle Meloche, CEO of Social Geeks Digital & AI Real Estate
Russell Island Business Owner
I am proud to nominate Chris for this award, as he is a true asset to our island community. His community spirit and dedication to helping others are evident in everything he does. Chris consistently goes above and beyond, offering his time, expertise, and support to those around him. His deep knowledge of the island and its needs makes him a go-to person for guidance and assistance. Always willing to lend a hand, Chris plays a crucial role in improving the lives of island residents and fostering a sense of unity. For his tireless hard work, commitment, and unwavering dedication to enhancing our community, Chris is more than deserving of this recognition.
Linda Pearce, Café.
