First Nations Tourism
Elevating First Nations tourism

For over two decades, QTIC has embedded First Nations knowledge and culture across our events, workforce initiatives, advocacy efforts, and interactions with industry. Our ongoing commitment is focused on enhancing outcomes for First Nations tourism and fostering a deeper understanding of the world’s oldest living cultures for our members and for guests on Country.

Our investment in First Nations tourism

At QTIC, we’re committed to empowering First Nations tourism in Queensland. This means doing our part to support the development of First Nations businesses and artists, curating community events, and facilitating culturally aware business practices within industry. Explore our initiatives below.

Destination IQ
Destination IQ

QTIC’s Destination IQ is Queensland’s foremost annual First Nations tourism conference. Delegates and industry professionals from all backgrounds and from across the state gather to discuss opportunities, hear the latest trends and innovations, and recognise First Nations tourism achievements. 

Queensland First Nations Tourism Plan

Voices of today, stories for tomorrow. Following extensive consultation with First Nations communities, QTIC launched the Queensland First Nations Tourism Plan in 2019. The Plan sets the framework to harness our rich First Nations cultural heritage and stewardship of Country, together with Queensland’s unique tourism experiences, to inspire the development of a thriving First Nations tourism sector.

Free course – Understanding First Nations cultural protocols

Boost your confidence in engaging with First Nations culture and Country. Explore QTIC’s free online course: Understanding First Nations Cultural Protocols

Best Practice Guide for Working with First Nations Tourism

Our Best Practice Guide for Working with First Nations Tourism strengthens ties between Indigenous Australia and Queensland’s tourism industry. The essential guide offers a framework for recognising people and place, protecting intellectual property, and honouring cultural protocols. Packed with key resources, it’s a must-read for anyone looking to respectfully engage with First Nations communities and culture.

Indigenous Champions Network
Indigenous Champions Network

For over a decade, the Champions Network has highlighted the vital role of Indigenous tourism, becoming leaders in engaging First Nations operators and employees. They are regularly involved in events and consultations aimed at improving Indigenous representation, while also working collectively to identify opportunities, support workplace experiences, and develop resources to recruit and retain Indigenous talent in the tourism sector.

Meet our Champions

Adam Jones, Experience Co

Alan Smith, Outback Aussie Tours

Anthony Corrie, Brisbane Lions

Birrunga Wiradyuri, Birrunga Gallery and Dining

Cameron Costello, Costello Consultancy

Chern’ee Sutton, Contemporary Artist

Craig Quartermaine, National Indigenous Culinary Institute

David Hudson, Didgeralia

David Williams, GILIMBAA

Emily Tanna, Compass Group Australia Pty Ltd

Greg Yong, Dreamworld

Hailey Brown, Vacayit

Joe Sproats, Platypus Wealth Institute

Johnny Murison, Jarramali Enterprises

Josh Hanley, Accor Hotels

Karen Hanna Miller, Isa Rodeo Limited

Katie Lord, SeaLink QLD

Kedea Atherton, Accor Hotels

Kylie-Lee Bradford, Kakadu Organics

Lauren Horner, Village Roadshow Theme Parks

Lloyd Mills, Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame

Michaella Harrison, QMF

Oriana Wyrozebska, QMF

Paul Morton, Novotel Surfers Paradise

Petina Tieman, Complete Business Solutions

Russell Boswell, Savannah Guides

Ryan Hanly, Travello

Serrin Carter, Outback Aussie Tours

Shannon Ruska, Tribal Experiences

Stephanie Parker, Southern Queensland Country Tourism

Tarragh Cunningham, Queensland Art Gallery

Tracy Kearney, Prestige Staffing Solutions

Violet Geesu, Sarina Russo Job Access

Willie Enoch-Tranby, CaPTA Group

Become a Champion

We are continually expanding the Network and are actively seeking businesses and support agencies who would like to join us in proactively supporting the involvement of Indigenous people in tourism. For more information, please contact our Indigenous Program Manager, Rhonda Appo on 07 3236 1445 or [email protected]