As we approach ANZAC Day on April 25th, we pause to remember and honour the courage, sacrifice, and commitment of those who served and sacrificed for our nation. In recognition of this important day, our office will be closed to commemorate and pay tribute to our servicemen and women. For those wishing to participate in local ANZAC Day services, we have compiled a list of ceremonies taking place across our region. To find a service near you, please follow the link here ANZAC Day Services.
Lest we forget. |
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As May approaches, we eagerly anticipate Small Business Month—a time to celebrate the spirit and success of our small business community. With a plethora of training, mentoring, and networking events scheduled, I encourage all our members to engage with these opportunities to foster growth and innovation in your enterprises. |
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Looking ahead, our own calendar is also vibrant with upcoming events designed to connect and enrich our community. I am personally excited about the Southern Downs Networking Night on April 30th at the newly renovated Ballandean Pub, and I hope to see many of you there. Additionally, mark your calendars for another fantastic networking opportunity on May 30th in the Western Downs, further information about this event to come.
In exciting news, we are embracing a significant milestone as Southern Queensland Country Tourism transitions to Queensland Country Tourism (QCT). This change reflects our evolving identity and dedication to promoting diverse and sustainable tourism experiences across our beautiful region. You'll notice these changes have been happening across our social channels, symbolising a new chapter of growth and opportunity. Please take these changes into consideration when interacting with us online and remember to tag us in your posts as Queensland Country.
Another event on the horizon is the Australian Tourism Exchange (ATE) in Melbourne from 19-23 May. This gathering is an excellent platform for our Trade Ready, Premium members, to showcase their offerings to a global audience. Our team is preparing to represent and promote our region’s exceptional tourism experiences. If you would like to see your business represented at ATE and other Trade events, please reach out to our team to find out more.
Moreover, I am thrilled to begin discussing the rollout of the Visitor Experience Program, which is scheduled for the second half of 2024. This initiative aims to elevate customer service across the regional travel chain, ensuring that every visitor’s experience in Queensland is nothing short of exceptional. From online to face-to-face workshops, this program will provide crucial support to front-line tourism staff, aligning with the Brisbane 2032 legacy and enhancing a commitment to quality under the Best of Queensland Experiences (BOQE) program.
Each of these developments is a step towards enhancing our collective impact and ensuring that Queensland remains a premier destination for travellers worldwide. Let’s continue to work together to make the most of these opportunities, fostering a resilient and thriving tourism community. |
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Queensland Country Tourism is excited to invite you to the Southern Downs Networking Night. Set against the backdrop of the charming, newly-renovated Ballandean Pub, this event on Tuesday, April 30th, offers a prime setting for meaningful engagement and learning within our vibrant tourism community.
Event Details - Tuesday, 30 April 2024
- 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM
- The Ballandean Pub, 1 St Judes Lane, Ballandean, QLD, Australia
- Members $25, Non-Members $50 (includes drinks and canapés)
We're thrilled to welcome Racheal Klitscher, Director of Stakeholder and Industry Engagement at Tourism and Events Queensland, who will delve into the nuances of the Best of Queensland Experience (BOQE) program. This session will be especially beneficial for those new to BOQE or aiming to enhance their current score.
The evening will also cover the latest in tourism trends, innovative marketing strategies, and sustainable practices, equipping you with the knowledge to excel. Don’t miss this chance to elevate your business, network with industry leaders, and discover key strategies to differentiate your offerings in the Queensland tourism market.
Secure your spot now—registrations close 29 May. We look forward to seeing you there for an evening full of opportunities and insights. |
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| As part of the ongoing efforts to develop the next phase of Australia’s national Visitor Economy strategy, THRIVE 2030, we invite you to contribute through a vital industry survey. Your insights are crucial in informing the Consolidation phase (2025-2027) of this strategy, aimed at enhancing and sustaining Australia's tourism sector. Whether you’re directly involved in tourism or contribute to the visitor economy in any capacity, your feedback is invaluable.
Please take a moment to complete the survey and help shape the future of tourism in Australia. Your participation is greatly appreciated. |
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| Nominations Closing 3 May 2024
The Queensland Tourism Awards, presented by the Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC), represent the pinnacle of achievement within the state's tourism industry. These prestigious awards recognise outstanding commitment to quality and excellence across various sectors, including accommodation, attractions, festivals, and events. Celebrating innovation and success, the awards encourage participants to strive for tourism excellence and to elevate their services and experiences.
This annual event not only honours the best in Queensland tourism but also serves as an opportunity for networking and professional growth. Winners of these awards gain state-wide recognition and can advance to compete at the national level. Join us in celebrating the vibrant spirit and accomplishments of Queensland's tourism operators.
For more information on categories, entry details, and event schedules, visit the Queensland Tourism Awards website. |
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| Planning an inclusive event in Queensland? Check out the Accessible Events Guide, a comprehensive resource designed to assist event organisers in creating accessible and welcoming environments for all attendees, including people with disabilities. This guide is an essential tool, offering practical advice on various aspects of event planning, from venue selection and layout to communication and emergency procedures.
Ensure your event is enjoyable for everyone by following the best practices outlined in this valuable guide. It’s not just about meeting standards—it's about opening doors to a more inclusive community.
For more details on making your event accessible, visit the Queensland Government's official Accessible Events Guide page. |
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| We are pleased to share an exciting opportunity for innovation in the tourism sector. The Queensland Tourism Industry Innovation Challenge, organised by The Department of Tourism, Innovation and Sport, will take place face-to-face in Brisbane. Please note, there is no virtual participation option for this event.
Event Details: - Date: Tuesday, 14 May
- Time: 9 AM - 2 PM
- Location: The Precinct, Level 2/315 Brunswick St, Fortitude Valley, Brisbane
- Cost: Free
Come along and hear innovative pitches aimed at solving major challenges in the Queensland tourism sector, enhancing the travel consumer journey and unlocking workforce capabilities. The event will host a panel of judges who will select the winning proposals, each receiving up to $100,000 in grant funding to develop their solutions.
This is an invaluable platform for networking and discovering cutting-edge solutions in tourism technology, aligned with the goals of the Tourism Technology and Innovation Roadmap and Towards Tourism 2032. |
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| Tuesday 30 April | Webinar Discover the path to sustainability in tourism with a series of free webinars presented by the Australian Government. Designed for SMEs in the tourism sector, this four-part webinar series is an essential resource for operators aiming to initiate or enhance their sustainable practices. Following the release of the national Sustainable Tourism Toolkit, the webinars cover managing businesses sustainably, environmental and climate initiatives, cultural respect, and fostering positive social impacts. Starting on 30 April, the series is a practical guide for tourism operators to not only improve their sustainability but also to leverage it for increased customer engagement, staff satisfaction, profitability, and resilience. |
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| Experience the Excitement of the Toowoomba Marathon!
Mark your calendars for the Toowoomba Marathon on Sunday, 5 May 2024. This premier event, managed by Events Management Queensland, features a variety of distances suitable for all levels of runners, including a full marathon, half marathon, 10km, 5km, and a special 2km junior dash. The race routes are carefully planned to showcase Toowoomba's historic sites, artistic streetscapes, and vibrant parks and gardens.
Runners can look forward to a well-organised event with excellent amenities, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable experience. Whether you're aiming to set a personal best or just want to enjoy a day of fun and fitness with the community, the Toowoomba Marathon is the perfect opportunity.
Don't miss out on the action—register now to secure your spot in this iconic race! |
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| Explore and Relax at Yarraman Caravan Park and Cabins
Yarraman Caravan Park in Queensland Country offers a welcoming retreat with a variety of accommodation tailored to suit every traveller. Choose from their comfortable Deluxe and Deluxe Plus Cabins with full amenities for couples, practical Standard Cabins, or spacious Family Cabins perfect for larger groups.
Adventure seekers and nature lovers can select from powered and unpowered sites, including luxury ensuite sites. Enjoy access to excellent facilities like individual bathrooms, a communal kitchen, firepits, a pool, and more. Don’t forget to bring your own firepit or brazier for a personal campfire experience – Firewood provided on site! Whether you're here to explore the local area or simply relax, Yarraman Caravan Park and Cabins promises a memorable stay. |
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