We're excited to welcome our newest members to the Queensland Country Tourism family:

These businesses are now part of our growing community, and we look forward to supporting their journey in the tourism industry.

If you're interested in becoming a member and learning more about the benefits, please reach out to membership@queenslandcountrytourism.com.au or visit our membership page.

Come along for an evening of connection and insight at the Queensland Country Tourism (QCT) Goondiwindi Region Industry Networking Night.

Tickets: Members $25, Non-Members $50

Join us for an engaging panel discussion on the burgeoning field of agritourism in Queensland Country. Our panellists include Goondiwindi Regional Council Mayor, Honourable Councillor Lawrence Springborg AM, Cr Julia Spicer from Engage and Create Consulting, and Sally Kennedy, the owner of Lanarium Retreat. The Honourable Councillor Lawrence Springborg AM will delve into the critical role local councils play in supporting the expansion of farming and agriculture businesses into new markets, emphasising the strategic importance of agritourism and its potential to mitigate seasonality. Cr Julia Spicer will share her extensive experience in helping businesses grow and innovate within the agribusiness sector, offering valuable insights on entering new markets. Sally Kennedy will provide a firsthand perspective on the development and success of Lanarium Retreat as an agritourism destination, highlighting the unique opportunities and challenges faced by such ventures.

This panel promises to offer a wealth of knowledge and practical advice for anyone interested in the intersection of agriculture and tourism, and the potential for economic growth in our region.

Wine Australia has opened applications for the Wine Tourism & Cellar Door Grant - Round 6. This program supports wine and cider producers who enhance tourism by attracting visitors to their cellar doors. Eligible businesses can receive grants ranging from $1 to $100,000, based on their cellar door sales. To qualify, applicants must meet specific criteria, including having a physical cellar door in Australia and a minimum of $1,207,000 in eligible sales. The total grant pool is $10 million, and applications close on September 30, 2024.

Queensland Country Tourism is available to provide letters of support where required. Please don't hesitate to reach out for assistance. For more details and to apply, visit Wine Australia’s grants portal.

Round 29 of the Queensland Destination Events Program (QDEP) funding is now open for applications! This funding supports events that drive tourism and deliver economic benefits to regional communities. Eligible events can receive funding to enhance their marketing, increase visitor numbers, and grow the overall visitor experience. If your event has the potential to attract tourists and contribute to Queensland's vibrant event landscape, this is an excellent opportunity to secure financial support.

For more information and to apply, visit the QDEP funding page.

In 2024, Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC) will lead the delivery of Queensland tourism's premier industry conference, the DestinationQ Forum, in partnership with the Department of Tourism and Sport and Tourism and Events Queensland.

This marks a new chapter in Queensland tourism as industry will now drive the success of all three premier events – Destination IQ and DestinationQ Forums, and the Queensland Tourism Awards Gala Ceremony – during Tourism Week from 13-15 November, at the newly built, The Star Brisbane.

To ensure the DestinationQ Forum 2024 reflects industry interests, we invite everyone invested in tourism to complete our short DestinationQ survey by Wednesday 14 August. Your responses will help shape the event's content and speakers.

Immerse yourself in Queensland’s rich history during our centenary celebrations of Cobb & Co’s final journey!

This significant event commemorates the last run of a Cobb & Co. Coach on 14 August 1924, marking the transition from horse-drawn coaches to modern technologies like motor vehicles, air mail services, and railways.

Join us from Wednesday 14 – Saturday 17 August for a four-day celebration where Cobb & Co. history comes alive. Enjoy live demonstrations, expert talks, and activities for all ages.

Relive the final journey of Cobb & Co. and be among the first to visit the refurbished National Carriage Gallery featuring Coach No. 112 – one of the last Cobb & Co coaches!

Mark your calendars for Friday 6 - Sunday 8 September, 2024, as the Laidley Spring Festival returns with a weekend full of festivities in the Lockyer Valley. This year, we’re thrilled to welcome celebrity guest Paul West, host of "River Cottage Australia," who will be sharing his passion for sustainable living and local produce. Enjoy the colourful street parade, stunning floral displays, live entertainment, and the Garden and Orchid Show. It's a perfect family outing filled with springtime fun!

For more information, visit the Laidley Spring Festival website.

Nestled in the tranquil rainforest of the Great Dividing Range, Ravensbourne Escape offers a collection of luxury holiday homes perfect for a serene getaway. With breathtaking views, modern amenities, and a peaceful atmosphere, it's an ideal destination for relaxation and nature exploration. Ravensbourne Escape also supports sustainable travel with EV charging stations available on-site, making it convenient for guests driving electric vehicles.