12 February 2026
EARLY BIRD TICKETS NOW ON SALE FOR 2026 GLOBAL SUSTAINABLE TOURISM SUMMIT
Ecotourism Australia’s Global Sustainable Tourism Summit returns to the Gold Coast from 2–5 June 2026, bringing together sustainability changemakers, innovators and industry leaders from across Australia and beyond. Supported by Tourism Australia and hosted by the City of Gold Coast, the four-day program will explore how the visitor economy can champion the four pillars of sustainability-environmental, cultural, socio-economic and business resilience. The Summit features a 1.5-day conference, social networking events and an optional destination immersion experience, aligned with World Environment Day on 5 June.
QUEENSLAND TOURISM FUTURES MENTORING PROGRAM
Queensland Tourism Futures, delivered by QTIC, is a flagship mentoring program supporting aspiring and early-career tourism professionals across Queensland. Running from April to October, the program thoughtfully matches mentees with experienced industry leaders for flexible, tailored mentoring sessions. Participants build confidence, strengthen leadership skills, and expand their professional networks through real-world industry insights and exclusive opportunities.
Expressions of Interest for the 2026 program close on 13 March 2026.
NOMINATE NOW FOR GOLD COAST AUSTRALIAN OF THE YEAR
Do you know an outstanding citizen who inspires others and makes a difference? A local role model creating positive change in our community? Nominations are now open for the 2026 Gold Coast Australian of the Year Awards. The City of Gold Coast wishes to recognise those helping to build a stronger, more connected community. Those whose challenges and triumphs reflect their remarkable achievements - who go above and beyond in their work or service, and who are champions in their own way, making a lasting impact on those around them.
Nominations close Monday 23 March 2026.
YOUNG TOURISM LEADERS PROGRAM 2026
This initiative supports up-and-coming professionals from across Queensland’s tourism sector, equipping them to inspire future talent and promote careers in tourism. Program participants visit schools and career events to share their own career stories, giving students insight into the wide range of pathways and real-world opportunities within the visitor economy.
Program highlights include:
- Encouraging school, vocational and tertiary students to explore careers in tourism
- Highlighting the breadth of roles available and offering practical career insights
- Helping participants grow their professional profiles and expand industry connections
Expressions of Interest are now open for the 2026–2027 program. Eligible applicants must be aged 18–35 and have employer support.
For more information about the Young Tourism Leaders Program, contact QTIC at QTICYTL@qtic.com.au or phone 07 3236 1445.
NATURE BASED TOURISM GRANT WORKSHOPS
City of Gold Coast is co-hosting 2 online webinars in February and March, designed to help strengthen your funding proposals, improve your chances with upcoming grants and shape market-ready experiences. You are welcome to join both complimentary sessions: Workshop 1: Creating a successful funding proposal. Workshop 2: Developing innovative, marketable products and experiences along with the introduction of Cinefly, a visual storytelling tool to support your proposal pitch.
COUNCIL RECOGNITION FOR LOCAL AWARD-WINNING OPERATORS 
Earlier this month, the City of Gold Coast officially recognised two local Queensland Tourism Awards winners in the Caravan and Holiday Parks category during a council meeting.
The Queensland Tourism Awards are the pinnacle of excellence in our state’s tourism industry. For 40 years, the awards have celebrated exceptional industry accomplishments, honouring the finest individuals, businesses, and events across Queensland.
The Caravan and Holiday Parks category recognises tourism excellence in a caravan or holiday park with a focus on both the facilities and services that enhance the tourism experience. The category is open to caravan or holiday parks that offer cabin and tenting accommodation and must meet a 3 to 5 Star Rating Standard.
The 2025 Bronze Award for the category was awarded to Broadwater Tourist Park. The award was accepted by Park Managers, Brooke Turner and Matthew MacDonald. Pictured with Mayor Tom Tate and City of GC CEO Tim Baker
The 2025 Silver Award was awarded to Tallebudgera Creek Tourist Park. The award was accepted by Park Contractor, Adrian Easdown and General Manager, Scott Easdown. Pictured with Mayor Tom Tate and City of GC CEO Tim Baker.
Congratulations also to the Gold winners of the category – BIG4 Gold Coast Holiday Park and Motel.
EGC once again extends our congratulations to other Queensland Tourism Award recipients on the Gold Coast.
Major Tourist Attractions
Gold: GC Aqua Park
Silver: Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
Bronze: SkyPoint
Major Festivals & Events
Gold: Blues on Broadbeach 2025
Award for Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Tourism Experiences
Bronze: Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre
Business Event Venues
Silver: Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre
Bronze: Tamborine Mountain Glades
Self Contained Accommodation
Bronze: Holiday Holiday
Excellence in Accessible Tourism
Silver: GC Wake Park
Peoples Choice – Accommodation
Tamborine Mountain Glades
JAPAN ROAD WARRIORS CHAMPIONING THE GOLD COAST ABROAD
Nine exceptional Experience Gold Coast partners took on the role of true “road warriors” during a recent Japan Mission, travelling across Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya to bring the spirit of the Gold Coast directly to the Japanese market.
Over an intense yet highly productive 10-day schedule, the delegation delivered a series of B2B workshops and seminars, creating valuable face-to-face connections with more than 500 key travel industry partners. From early morning briefings to evening networking sessions, every moment was focused on sharing product knowledge and building confidence in the Gold Coast as a preferred destination.
Against this encouraging market landscape, the mission created an incredible opportunity to showcase the Gold Coast and its diverse experiences, strong aviation access, and readiness to welcome Japanese travellers once again. The energy shown by the participating partners ensured that the Gold Coast message was delivered with impact and credibility.
As the road warriors returned home, they brought with them not only tired feet, but a solid foundation for future business growth from Japan.
PARTNER SPOTLIGHT
Each fortnight, we’ll profile an EGC Partner- giving you a behind-the-scenes look at the businesses driving the Gold Coast visitor economy.
SLIDEWAYS GO KARTING
How would you describe your business and what you offer to someone new to the Gold Coast?
Slideways Go Karting is the thing you suggest when you need fun! Our unique surface allows the Karts to drift, ensuring smiles galore around our 450m track which did we also mention is 3 levels and runs indoor to outdoor?! With Karts available for kids 7+ who meet the height requirements (we even have a dual kart to take those too young to drive) the whole family will leave wanting more!
What inspired you to start or join this business?
We are a proudly family-owned Australian business with a genuine passion for motorsport and unforgettable experiences. With over 35 years in the hire karting industry, Slideways Go Karting represents the culmination of decades of expertise. We give everyone the opportunity to experience the thrill of real motorsport- at prices that keep it accessible and fun!
What’s a fun or lesser-known fact about your business or team?
Despite popular opinion we don’t get to drive the Go Karts all the time when there are no customers!
What’s one thing clients, guests, or partners consistently value or remember about working with you?
Professionalism and fun! Slideways Go Karting is the standard when it comes to hire go kart tracks, our staff go above and beyond ensuring our customers can focus on the fun!
PARTNER ANNOUNCEMENTS
TURN UP THE RHYTHM AT NORTÉ CARNAVAL
Norté invites guests to experience the colour, flavour and energy of Latin America’s most iconic festival at Norté Carnaval, a one-night celebration on Saturday 21 February. The evening features roving samba dancers, open-fire Churrasco feasts with Wagyu beef, vibrant Latin American cocktails and a Margarita-inspired dessert to finish. As the night unfolds, DJs in the Norté Agave Bar set the mood before the celebration continues upstairs at Sueño Rooftop with an unforgettable after-party under the stars. Festive attire is encouraged and reservations are essential.
SANCTUARY COVE INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW ON SALE NOW
Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show 2026 tickets are now on sale! From world-class boats and marine innovation to luxury brands, fine food, and waterfront entertainment, SCIBS returns to Sanctuary Cove for its 37th year - bigger and better than ever. This is one showcase you won’t want to miss.
VIEW THE 29 JAN 2026 VISITOR ECONOMY UPDATE
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY
Experience Gold Coast acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we are situated, the Kombumerri families of the Yugambeh Language Region.
We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging, and recognise their continuing connections to the lands, waters and their extended communities throughout Southeast Queensland.