9 April 2026
QUEENSLAND TOURISM AWARDS NOMINATIONS OPEN
Tourism businesses across Queensland now have a powerful new way to strengthen their operations and craft standout award submissions, with nominations now open for the 41st annual Queensland Tourism Awards.
More than just an awards program, the Queensland Tourism Awards provide an opportunity for businesses to step back, reflect on their achievements, recognise the hard work of their teams and identify opportunities to grow.
To help businesses get the most from the process, the Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC) has launched the Queensland Tourism Awards Academy, with applications now open.
Led by experienced business strategist Kayleen Allen, the Academy will support both first-time and returning entrants to confidently tell their business story while strengthening key areas such as innovation, sustainability, and customer experience.
Through a series of practical workshops, mentoring and tailored resources, participants will gain valuable insights into what awards judges are looking for and how to develop a compelling submission that stands out.
Program Highlights:
- Online workshops and practical resources to guide your awards journey
- Insights into what judges are looking for in a strong submission
- One-on-one mentoring to strengthen your business capability and refine your entry
With categories spanning events, marketing, cultural tourism, accommodation and more, the Queensland Tourism Awards celebrate the people and businesses delivering exceptional visitor experiences across the state.
Submitting a nomination takes just 10 minutes and ensures your business is eligible to complete the full awards submission later in the year.
For businesses looking to build capability, showcase their success and celebrate their team, now is the time to begin the journey.
Nominate your business today and take the first step toward Queensland tourism’s most prestigious recognition.
QUEENSLAND TOURISM BUSINESSES SURGE AHEAD OF NATIONAL GROWTH
New data from Tourism Research Australia reveals Queensland’s tourism sector is thriving, with business numbers rising 10.2% over five years, outpacing the national average. Small businesses continue to power the industry, with the majority operating in regional areas and playing a vital role in driving the state’s visitor economy.
2032 BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES NOW OPEN
The Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games are already creating exciting opportunities for businesses of all sizes across the Gold Coast and beyond. From construction and hospitality to tourism, technology, and event services, the scale of the Games means demand across almost every sector. With procurement underway and opportunities continuing to roll out through to 2032, now is the time for businesses to get involved, whether independently or through collaborative models. Don’t miss your chance to be part of delivering one of the most inclusive and sustainable Games to date.
AI IN ACTION: WHAT TOURISM OPERATORS NEED TO KNOW
Missed the latest webinar from Tourism Australia’s Digital and AI series? The final session explored how AI is reshaping the tourism industry, with practical, real-world applications operators can use to enhance customer experience, streamline operations, and stay competitive. You can view the recording here to catch up on key insights and actionable takeaways.
MIDDLE EAST CONFLICT: WHAT IT MEANS FOR GLOBAL TRAVEL & TOURISM
Stay in the know: ATEC’s latest update highlights how the Middle East conflict is affecting travel patterns, with many operators seeing cancellations or delays from key long-haul markets. Being aware of these shifts can help your business anticipate changes, adjust bookings, and support travellers navigating disruptions. Available to current financial members of ATEC.
UNLOCK AI FOR YOUR TOURISM BUSINESS WITH ATEC’S ACCELERATOR PROGRAM
ATEC’s new AI Accelerator Program for Tourism, starting 15th April, is a four-part online course designed to help you harness AI across marketing, content, automation, and operations. With limited places available, members can join for $400 (non-members $600) to gain practical skills that can transform your tourism business.
EMPOWERING GOLD COAST BUSINESSES TO GROW AND THRIVE
The Gold Coast’s Support for Business Growth initiative provides practical guidance, tools, and connections to help tourism and other local businesses succeed. From free advisory services to links with funding opportunities and growth focused programs, there’s support available to help you innovate, expand your reach, and strengthen your long term success.
GOLD COAST NATURE BASED TOURISM SUPPORT: GRANTS & GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES
The Gold Coast is boosting its nature-based tourism sector with dedicated grant programs that help local operators grow and innovate sustainable nature connected experiences. From quick activation funding to larger investment opportunities, this initiative is designed to expand ecotourism offerings, support business development, and attract more visitors to explore the region’s unique natural assets.
Applications are open from 1 May to 30 June. Successful opportunity applications will be announced in September 2026.
Questions? Please email naturebasedtourism@goldcoast.qld.gov.au
C7EVEN DIGITAL CAMPAIGN – JAPAN
In partnership with Tourism and Events Queensland (TEQ), Experience Gold Coast commenced a four-month digital programmatic campaign in Japan on 24 February. Through the previous partnership campaigns, C7EVEN has proven that they deliver culturally attuned, data-driven marketing campaigns that connect Japanese audiences with Gold Coast’s destinations in meaningful ways. The campaign aims to further elevate the Gold Coast’s profile among couples, families and food focused travellers and drive consideration.
Source: CoStar. Data correct as at 9 April 2026
PARTNER SPOTLIGHT
SEAWAY KAYAKING TOURS
What do you offer to someone new to the Gold Coast?
We offer a way to experience the Gold Coast that most visitors never see, where adventure and nature come together.
Our guided kayaking and snorkelling tours are the main way we introduce guests to the Gold Coast Broadwater, part of the southern Moreton Bay, a wetland of international significance known for its rich and diverse marine life. We also offer a range of guided experiences that explore the region in different ways from relaxed, nature-based outings to more adventurous sessions on the water, which include added challenges and engaging educational elements.
The experiences are designed to be accessible for first-timers, solo travellers, couples, families, groups of friends, school groups and corporate teams alike, offering a genuine connection with nature while still keeping the adventure alive.
We bring together physical activity, local knowledge, and genuine care, creating space to slow down, have fun, and take it all in.
What sets your business apart within the Gold Coast tourism industry?
We focus on creating experiences that feel both adventurous and deeply connected to place.
Operating in the Gold Coast Broadwater requires a strong understanding of tides, weather, and marine environments, and this knowledge shapes every tour we run. It allows us to offer experiences that are not only enjoyable but also safe, responsive, and grounded in the area's natural rhythms.
What also sets us apart is how we combine kayaking, snorkelling, and local storytelling into a single experience. Guests aren’t just moving through the environment, they’re understanding it, engaging with it, and seeing a side of the Gold Coast that many visitors miss.
Our tours are designed to feel personal and engaging, with experienced guides who adapt each session to the conditions and the group on the day. We also place a strong emphasis on quality and sustainability, from locally sourced snacks to our ongoing commitment toward eco-certification.
What’s one thing clients consistently value or remember about working with you?
Guests consistently tell us how safe and supported they feel, especially if it’s their first time kayaking or snorkelling.
Our guides take the time to explain everything clearly, adapt to each group, and create an environment where people can relax, have fun, and build confidence on the water. That combination of care, local knowledge, and genuine enthusiasm often turns what could feel intimidating into something enjoyable and memorable.
Beyond that, people tend to remember most the overall experience: being on the water, encountering marine life, sharing the moment with others, and enjoying small touches like locally prepared snacks.
Many leave saying it was a highlight of their trip, not just for what they did, but for how the experience made them feel.
Are there any insider tips or advice you’d share to help others get the most out of the Gold Coast experience?
One of the most special things about the Gold Coast is how close the Gold Coast Broadwater is to the city, yet once you’re out there, it feels like a completely different world.
It’s a dynamic estuary, constantly changing with the tides, meaning every visit offers something different. You might encounter fish, dolphins, rays, soldier crabs, or an incredible variety of birdlife depending on the conditions.
High tide generally offers the best snorkelling conditions, with clearer water and easier access to underwater marine life. Low tide, on the other hand, reveals the sandbanks and intertidal zones, where you can explore and see the patterns, tracks, and activity of the creatures that live there.
For beginners or non-swimmers, mornings are usually the best time to go. The wind tends to be lighter, the water calmer, and the overall experience more relaxed. For those seeking a bit more challenge, afternoons can bring stronger winds and more dynamic conditions, adding a sense of adventure and a more physical experience on the water.