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From tickets to tech: 40 years of evolution at Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant

Helloworld Travel Mackay and Mt Pleasant owners Annabel and Ben Dolphin marked a major milestone in 2026 with four decades in business, which has seen the Central Queensland stores become trusted travel providers for the community.

Helloworld Travel Mackay and Mt Pleasant owners Annabel and Ben Dolphin marked a major milestone in 2026 with four decades in business, which has seen the Central Queensland stores become trusted travel providers for the community.

With a Helloworld Travel shopfront on Wood Street in the Mackay CBD and a store within the northern suburb of Mount Pleasant, the Dolphins have been part of the local community since 1986.

From humble beginnings to becoming one of the region’s most trusted travel providers, they have seen the industry evolve from paper tickets to digital itineraries and from global booms to unexpected challenges.

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“As a professional voice in the travel space, I’ve seen firsthand how rare it is for a business to maintain both relevance and heart over four decades,” Annabel Dolphin said.

Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant agency owners Annabel and Ben Dolphin with the Helloworld Travel Mackay team.
Helloworld Travel Mackay & Mt Pleasant agency owners Annabel and Ben Dolphin with the Mackay team.

Throughout it all, Dolphin said their locally owned agency has been at the heart of countless holidays, honeymoons, reunions, and once-in-a-lifetime adventures, underpinned by personalised service, genuine relationships and commitment.

“[It’s] more than just an anniversary – it’s a celebration of connection, community, and four decades of unforgettable journeys. A milestone that reflects not only longevity, but trust, resilience, and a deep passion for helping people explore the world,” she said.

(L-R): Helloworld Travel Mackay Store Manager Matthew Perre, Helloworld Travel Mt Pleasant Store Manager Stacey Brownsey and agency owners Annabel and Ben Dolphin. 
40 years in biz: (L-R): Helloworld Travel Mackay Store Manager Matthew Perre, Helloworld Travel Mt Pleasant Store Manager Stacey Brownsey and agency owners Annabel and Ben Dolphin. 

“This isn’t just about travel – it’s about people. Every itinerary we create represents someone’s story and being part of that for 40 years is something incredibly special.

“This milestone is not just impressive, it’s inspiring. It’s a testament to what happens when expertise meets authenticity,” she said.

The major milestone also comes as another Queensland-based Helloworld Travel owner recently expanded to a two-store portfolio.