Thank you to everyone who joined us for our networking night in the Western Downs. It was wonderful to see such a great turnout. A special thanks to Mel Porter, Board Director Queensland Country Tourism, and Geoff McDonald, Chair Queensland Country Tourism, for providing valuable insights and sharing the latest industry data and trends.
Looking ahead, we have two exciting opportunities for you in June. Our next networking night will be held in the Central Highlands on the 12th of June, and we will be launching our Destination Management Plan (DMP) in Toowoomba on the 25th of June. Further details about both events can be found in this newsletter.
I strongly encourage you to attend the DMP launch, as it is a crucial guiding document for our region's future. Many of you have been part of the journey through our DMP consultation sessions, and we would love for you to continue with us at the launch.
I recently attended the Australian Tourism Exchange (ATE) in Melbourne with Marketing Manager Sheree Gillies. This event is the single largest domestic platform for connecting with International agents and wholesalers. We were thrilled to launch our 2024 Trade Manual and showcase the incredible tourism opportunities and operators across our region to buyers from around the world. Over the four-day program, our team met with 95 buyers from around the world to discuss trade-ready opportunities.
We continuously work with the trade sector throughout the year, so if you missed out on being included in our trade manual and would like to be featured, please reach out to our team. Buyers are always on the lookout for something new, so if you are not yet trade-ready, consider becoming the next big thing. Let us know if you are interested in becoming trade-ready, and we will help you achieve that goal. |
|
 |
| Central Highlands Networking Night - 12 June | 
| Jun 12, 2024
(6:00 PM - 8:00 PM)
(GMT+10) |
|
|
| 
| The Mayfair Emerald
Emerald, Queensland, Au... |
|
|
| Join us for an evening of connection and insight at the Queensland Country Tourism (QCT) Central Highlands Networking Night. This event will be hosted at The Mayfair Emerald, serving as a perfect backdrop for fostering collaboration and innovation within our vibrant tourism community.
When: Wednesday, 12 June 2024 Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM Where: The Mayfair Emerald, 7/11 Mayfair Dr, Emerald QLD 4720 Tickets: Members $25, Non-Members $50 (Includes drinks, canapes)
This event is more than just a meeting of minds; it's a chance to align with industry leaders, gain insights into the latest tourism trends, and develop strategies that will set your business apart. From innovative marketing tactics to sustainable tourism practices, the Central Highlands Networking Night is designed to provide you with the tools and connections necessary to thrive in today's competitive tourism sector.
Space is limited, secure your spot today to ensure you don't miss out on this opportunity to connect, learn, and grow with the best in the business. Your next big opportunity starts here, at the Central Highlands Networking Night. See you there! | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
| QLD Country Tourism – Destination Management Plan Launch |
| Jun 25, 2024
(5:30 PM - 7:30 PM)
(GMT+10) |
|
|
|
| Potters Hotel & Res...
Toowoomba City, Queensl... |
|
|
| Earlier this year, we hosted a series of community consultation events across the Queensland Country Region. These sessions allowed you to connect with us and discuss your needs, expectations, and challenges as our region's tourism offerings mature.
On the 25th of June, we are excited to share the culmination of your contributions, industry trends, data and projections, and planned infrastructure that have all informed the Queensland Country Destination Management Plan (DMP).
This roadmap is designed to guide us into the future, providing a collective focus, strategy, and actions for the sustainable growth and management of tourism for Queensland Country through 2028 and beyond. The goal is to ensure visitors not only return but also leave a lasting legacy of positive impacts on our local communities, visitor economy, and natural environment.
Event Details: When: Tuesday, 25 June 2024 Time: 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM Where: Potters Boutique Hotel - 258 Margaret St, Toowoomba City Tickets: Members $25, Non-Members $50 (Includes drinks and canapes)
This event is more than just a meeting of minds; it's a chance to align with industry leaders, gain insights into the latest tourism trends, and develop strategies that will set your business apart. From innovative marketing tactics to sustainable tourism practices, the Destination Management Plan is designed to provide you with the tools and connections necessary to thrive in today's competitive tourism sector.
Space is limited, so secure your spot today to ensure you don't miss out on this opportunity to connect, learn, and grow with the best in the business. | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Leverage the TEQ Campaign: June - September 2024 |
| Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to participate in the upcoming TEQ campaign from June to September 2024. This campaign promises extensive consumer engagement, providing a fantastic platform for your brand or business.
How to Get Involved Emilia Ball, Strategic Partnerships Director at IMATE (Industry Media Agency for Tourism and Events in QLD), highlights the following opportunities: - Featured Deals ATDW Placements: Secure exclusive site placements for $1,000 per placement for 4-weeks.
- Social Media Campaigns: Plan Facebook and Instagram activities to tap into the high consumer interaction with the TEQ campaign, starting from a $1,000 buy-in.
- Additional Media Placements: Purchase extra placements across channels such as OOH and TV for greater exposure.
- Customised Campaigns: Get bespoke brief responses tailored to your business objectives, leveraging the TEQ campaign audience.
For more details and to get involved, please contact Emilia.Ball@dentsu.com
Maximise your brand’s visibility and reach by participating in this major campaign. |
|
|
|
|  |
The Queensland Government's $2 million Tourism Business Capability Subsidy is back for a second round! This initiative supports sole traders, micro, small, and medium-sized tourism and event businesses in Queensland by providing funding for targeted training and accreditation programs.
What’s On Offer? Eligible businesses can receive a subsidy of up to $2,000 (excluding GST) to enhance their capabilities in key areas such as sustainability, ecotourism, trade distribution, cultural understanding, tour guiding, and more. The goal is to improve visitor experiences and increase the number of businesses with recognized tourism accreditation. - Up to $2,000 (excluding GST) per business for approved activities.
- No co-contribution required, but any costs above $2,000 must be covered by the applicant.
- Reimbursement is provided after the completion of the training or accreditation.
To be eligible, businesses must: - Primarily operate in the tourism and events industry in Queensland.
- Employ fewer than 200 full-time equivalent employees.
- Have an established operating base in Queensland.
- Hold an ABN and be registered for GST.
Applications are assessed in order of receipt and will close when all funds are exhausted or at the discretion of DTS.
Key Dates - Applications Open: 15 May 2024
- Training/Accreditation Registration: Within 30 business days of approval
- Completion Date: By 18 October 2024
Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your business capabilities and improve the visitor experience. Apply now and take your business to the next level! |
| | Read More |
|
|
| 12-Weeks to Flood Ready Program: Starting June 20th |
| Queensland Country Tourism is excited to launch the "12-Weeks to Flood Ready Program," a comprehensive initiative tailored for our tourism operators to enhance flood resilience and disaster management skills. Funded by the Queensland Government, this program aligns with the international Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, offering a structured approach to disaster preparedness.
What to Expect Starting June 20th, participants will receive: - Weekly Emails: Packed with valuable information and resources.
- Webinars: Interactive sessions covering risk assessments, emergency and contingency planning.
- Resources: Tools to develop a robust disaster management plan.
Program Benefits This program ensures that Queensland Country members are equipped to efficiently handle and recover from floods and other natural disasters, enhancing overall disaster preparedness and resilience.
No Registration Required If you are a current member of Queensland Country Tourism, you will automatically receive all program materials in your inbox each week. We will also provide advance notice of webinar sessions.
Stay tuned for further details, and prepare to embark on a journey towards enhanced flood readiness and disaster management starting June 20th! |
|
|
|
|  |
Are you looking to reduce your business’s energy, water, and waste bills? The ecoBiz program, delivered by Business Queensland and funded by the state, offers a fantastic opportunity for businesses to achieve significant savings while contributing to sustainability.
What is ecoBiz? ecoBiz is a free program that helps Queensland businesses save an average of 19% on their energy, water, and waste bills. The program provides tools, resources, and expert advice to help businesses implement cost-saving measures and reduce their environmental footprint.
Key Benefits - Free Assessment: For businesses with over five staff, an assessor provides a report with cost-saving actions.
- Expert Mentoring: Tailored guidance to implement recommendations.
- Resources and Tools: Online resources for smaller businesses to develop emissions reduction plans.
How to Get Started To learn more about the ecoBiz program and sign up, visit the ecoBiz website. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enhance your business's sustainability and reduce your utility costs.
Take the first step towards a more sustainable and cost-effective future with ecoBiz! |
| | Read More |
|
|
|  |
The Queensland Government proudly presents the Queensland Small Business Strategy 2024-27, a comprehensive plan shaped by the voices of nearly 2,000 small businesses, industry representatives, peak bodies, and key stakeholders.
The three-year strategy addresses four critical areas: - Lowering Costs for Small Business: Reducing operating expenses and easing cost of living pressures.
- Boosting Opportunities for Small Business: Enhancing productivity and maximizing procurement and supply chain opportunities, especially through Queensland's infrastructure Big Build.
- Building Resilience, Capability, and Workforce: Addressing challenges such as operating costs and enhancing the skills and capabilities of small business owners and their workforce.
- Growing Diversity: Promoting inclusivity and diverse growth within the small business sector.
This strategy aims to support small businesses by: - Reducing Costs: Implementing measures to lower costs and ease financial pressures.
- Increasing Productivity: Creating opportunities for small businesses to benefit from major infrastructure projects in housing, energy, hospitals, schools, and transport.
- Enhancing Skills and Capabilities: Providing resources and support to help business owners and their teams innovate, adapt, and thrive.
The Queensland Small Business Strategy 2024-27 is designed to empower small businesses to navigate challenges and seize opportunities, fostering a robust and dynamic small business environment in Queensland.
For more detailed information on the strategy and to find out how your business might be impacted, visit the Queensland Small Business Strategy 2024-27. |
| | Read More |
|
|
| Saturday 15 June
Join us on June 15 for the Esk Garden and Lifestyle Fair, the ultimate destination for gardening enthusiasts and families alike. Explore a wide range of nurseries, hobby growers, and exhibitors offering the best in plants and garden art. Enjoy informative talks from guest speakers like Paul Plant and Kate Wall, plus a variety of free entertainment, including chef demonstrations and live music. Don't miss this day of green-thumbed adventure and community spirit in the heart of Esk. Entry is $5, and children under 16 attend free. |
| | Read More |
|
|
| Experience the vibrant atmosphere at The Rock Toowoomba, where exceptional dining meets exciting entertainment. With an extensive à la carte menu, delicious snack options, and a dynamic selection of drinks, The Rock caters to all tastes. Whether you're looking for a night out with live music, a place to play the latest gaming machines, or a venue for a special function, The Rock has you covered. Enjoy top-notch service and a memorable evening at this local Toowoomba hotspot. |
| | Read More |
|
|
|
