The Colonel is coming to town as the new KFC in Bowen opens its doors

Creating new jobs for locals, the world-famous fast food franchise has opened in Bowen, with a Grand Opening to be held on Sunday, November 20.

Staff outside the new KFC in Bowen on their first day of trading.

After a lengthy build since receiving the green light from council in January, world-famous food franchise KFC has finally opened in the heart of Bowen.

Located at 47 Leichhardt Street with surrounding road works nearing completion today, the restaurant has created new job opportunities for the area.

With all 30 new team members hailing from Bowen and surrounds, the latest KFC restaurant to open up in the Whitsundays will be led by restaurant general manager Mylene Eco.

A true KFC veteran, Ms Eco has held a restaurant management position at KFC for 21 years across Australia and the Philippines, most recently moving from Moranbah just two weeks ago.

Manager of the new Bowen Kentucky Fried Chicken Mylene Eco.

“The arrival of KFC in Bowen is really exciting for the team and local KFC fans,” Ms Eco said.

“The new restaurant is in a great location for locals and tourists visiting or travelling through the Whitsundays region.

“We’re thrilled to welcome our new team members into the KFC family, providing great new job opportunities to our local area as well.”

With more positions still available, Ms Eco said she was passionate about building a strong and confident team to provide both the best customer service possible and quality Kentucky Fried Chicken to the people of Bowen.

“Our culture fosters the growth and development of our people by providing opportunities that help them gain lifelong skills, confidence and friends,” she said.

Incorporating drive-through, dine-in and takeaway options, the new KFC will open Sunday to Thursday, 10am to 9pm and Friday and Saturday from 10am to 10pm.

To celebrate its arrival, there will be an official Grand Opening on Sunday, November 20, from 10am.

Everyone who visits the restaurant on the day will have the chance to win KFC merchandise and vouchers, with the Colonel himself dropping by for a sneaky selfie photo opportunity or two.

The Bowen KFC opening comes just weeks after plans were approved for a second KFC in the Whitsundays region, with Whitsunday Regional Council recently giving the green light to a new Cannonvale store.