Please know we’re here to support you, resources are available in this newsletter and we encourage you to reach out to myself or the team if we can be of any further assistance.

We’ve hit the ground running in 2025, kicking off with a fantastic Tourism Leaders Breakfast last week. The energy in the room was electric, and we’re so pleased with the positive feedback. A huge thank you to everyone who attended. We were also proud to announce that World Environment Day will be heading to the Whitsundays this year—thanks to our Destination Event Partner, Whitsunday Regional Council. Join us on 5 June at Shute Harbour for a meaningful regional celebration. We’re currently working on exclusive industry accommodation rates and package offers—stay tuned!

Looking ahead, we’re thrilled that Queensland will host the Australian Tourism Exchange (ATE) this year, thanks to Tourism and Events Queensland, Brisbane Economic Development Agency, and Tourism Australia. It’s all happening just across the road from our office at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre. If you’re in town and have any gaps in your schedule, we’d love to connect. Reach out to myself or the team—we’re always keen to chat.

This month’s EDM is packed with ways to engage:

• Learn more about our Industry Skills Jobs and Workforce Programs, including RPL support for cooks—get in touch with Kathryn to promote this opportunity within your teams.
• Dive into the Gateway to Schools Program, helping bring tourism and hospitality into classrooms across the state.
• Stay up to date on the Quality Tourism Framework and how your business can get accredited—Amanda Ronan-Hearn is now leading this space.
• Connect with our growing Advocacy Team, with Nicole Yu making great strides since joining us.
• And of course, explore how to be involved in the Queensland Tourism Awards—a big congratulations to all of our 2024 finalists and winners. Your dedication and investment in excellence truly elevate the industry. We’re already planning a spectacular celebration for the 40th anniversary of the Awards in 2025!

As always, thank you for the passion and resilience you bring to Queensland’s visitor economy. We look forward to seeing you at an event, workshop, or industry catch-up soon.