I am thrilled to extend heartfelt congratulations to the towns of Kilcoy, Toogoolawah, and Wandoan for being recognised as finalists in this year’s Queensland 'Top Tourism Town Awards'. Each of these towns, with their unique attractions and committed communities, represents the very best of what our region has to offer.
These awards celebrate not just the destinations but also the communities behind them, whose tireless efforts make every visit memorable. With voting now closed, we eagerly await the announcement of the winners on 7 June. Let’s continue to support Kilcoy, Toogoolawah, and Wandoan as they shine on the national stage. |
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Additionally, I would like to congratulate DownsSteam for their remarkable achievement in restoring Steam Engine 106, “The Pride of Toowoomba.” This historic engine, the last steam train manufactured in Toowoomba in 1914, was saved from being scrapped thanks to the efforts of John Peel, local councils, and the dedicated volunteers of the Darling Downs Historical Society. Over the years, countless hours have been invested in its restoration, culminating in the engine receiving approval to take passengers on the mainline. This milestone was celebrated with a launch event on 2 May and was followed by its inaugural passenger journey on 18 May.
This week, Marketing Manager Sheree Gillies and I are in Melbourne for the Australian Tourism Exchange (ATE24). As Australia’s largest annual tourism trade gathering, ATE24 has set a new record with 714 global buyers and 620 Australian seller organisations registered to attend. Over the course of the four-day program, the Queensland Country team has an impressive 84 buyer appointments scheduled. I want to emphasise the importance of being trade ready and participating in these pivotal events. While it may seem unnecessary to focus on new markets when business is going well, the reality is that this is precisely the time to be getting ready to seize new opportunities. Being trade ready ensures that your business is prepared when opportunity knocks. If you were not ready to be included in this year’s trade manual but are interested in future opportunities, now is the perfect time to reach out to our team.
We are here to guide you through the process of becoming a trade-ready business in time for ATE2025. |
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Queensland Country Tourism (QCT), in partnership with the Western Downs Regional Council, is delighted to invite you to a special networking evening at the Windsor Hotel, Dalby. Set for Thursday, 30 May 2024, from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM, this event promises a prime opportunity to connect with industry leaders, peers, and the dedicated QCT team.
The evening will be an ideal platform for sharing the latest updates in the tourism sector, discussing new opportunities, and enjoying an atmosphere perfect for fostering new collaborations. Light refreshments and canapés will be served.
Event Details: Date: Thursday, 30 May 2024 Time: 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM Location: Windsor Hotel, Dalby Tickets: Members $25 | Non-Members $50 (Includes drinks and canapés)
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enhance your connections within the tourism industry and gain valuable insights in a relaxed and welcoming setting. We are excited to welcome you to what is sure to be an informative and beneficial evening for all.
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| Have you heard the news?
TEQ is launching its biggest campaign in more than a decade on 2 June and we want you to be involved.
TEQ will be holding a confidential industry-only briefing on Wednesday, 29 May from 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM with updates from TEQ CEO Trish O’Callaghan, TEQ Group Executive Marketing Kim McConnie and industry representatives.
This is a confidential briefing and it will not be recorded so we hope to see you there.
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| Friday, 7 - Sunday, 9 June 2024 Mark your calendars for a weekend of family fun at the Jandowae Timbertown Festival from June 7-9, 2024!
Dive into the rich timber history of Jandowae with activities that include a grand parade, market and food stalls, live entertainment, and unique chainsaw sculpting events. The festival promises a spectacular fireworks display, alongside free kids' entertainment.
Don’t miss out on this vibrant celebration of community and heritage in the heart of Queensland’s timber country! |
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In a celebration of community and creativity, Telstra, in partnership with Starlink, have offered a unique opportunity for regional communities to transform a local silo or water tower into a stunning mega mural, at no cost. This initiative aims to beautify rural landscapes, foster community engagement, and turn these structures into compelling tourist attractions.
We’re inviting community organisations and councils to apply for this transformative project. The process is straightforward: submit an expression of interest detailing the proposed location, along with letters of support from both the land owner and local council. Imagine a dynamic artwork playing with perspective, creating the illusion of a spaceship interacting with the silo - a guaranteed eye-catcher that will draw visitors and residents alike.
Don’t miss out on the chance to create a landmark that celebrates your community’s spirit and innovation. Applications are open until Sunday, 26 May. Follow the link below to download the short Expression of Interest and get started on bringing a monumental vision to life! |
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| Applications closing 5:00pm Thursday, 6 June 2024
Tourism & Events Queensland's (TEQ) Queensland Destination Events Program (QDEP) aims to generate local economic activity, attract visitors, drive social and community outcomes and enhance the profile and appeal of the destination.
QDEP funding can be used by event organisers for marketing costs, strategic plan development, engagement of short-term specialised personnel and to hire temporary infrastructure to enhance the visitor experience.
Events being staged between January 2025 - January 2026 are eligible to apply.
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We are excited to share an upcoming training opportunity that can help transform your tourism business with cutting-edge technology. Following a recent survey named 'Future-Focused,' which revealed a keen interest in GenAI among tourism professionals, Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC) has partnered with renowned GenAI expert Christian Watts from Magpie Travel to offer a comprehensive 6-month learning and adoption journey.
The "Harnessing GenAI for Your Business" program is designed to provide you with the knowledge and tools necessary to thrive in the evolving tourism industry.
What's Included: 6 x 60-minute Live Tutorials (recorded and accessible)
Tutorial Outlines: - Module 1: Introduction to Generative AI in Tourism
- Module 2: Content Creation and Marketing
- Module 3: Operational Efficiency and Automation
- Module 4: Multi-Modal AI
- Module 5: AI in Communication and Chatbots
- Module 6: Enhancing Customer Experience
Participants will embark on a six-month journey focused on GenAI adoption. Limited places are available for this inaugural course, so register now.
Start Date: 10am (AEST) Friday, 7 June 2024 Cost: ATEC Members: $250 (ex. GST), Non-Members: $500 (ex. GST)
Don't miss this opportunity to power your business with AI! |
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| Located in the heart of South Burnett's wine country, the Wondai Colonial Motel offers a cozy retreat with a touch of historical charm. Featuring 14 modern air-conditioned rooms, including a luxurious honeymoon suite with spa and family-friendly units, you are assured a comfortable stay. Indulge in some of the best steaks in the region at their fully licensed restaurant, or explore local attractions such as antique shops, wineries, and Lake Barambah. Ideal for both leisure and business travellers, Wondai Colonial Motel is your home away from home. |
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