2025 marks the start of the future for tourism across the Bundaberg, Gladstone and Southern Great Barrier Reef regions, with the regional tourism industry gathering to define a bold and visionary new future.
Between Friday 31 January and Wednesday 19 February, the region’s business leaders will join Regional Tourism Organisations and local and state representatives at a series of workshops and events to set the strategic direction and ambitious targets for the industry for the next two decades.
Bundaberg Tourism CEO Katherine Reid said future tourism growth would build from past successes and achievements.
“The Southern Great Barrier Reef Region’s visitor economy is the strongest it’s ever been off the back of decades of hard work and positive partnership, and the future holds unprecedented opportunity for the tourism sector,” Katherine said.
“The region’s tourism landscape is rapidly evolving amidst shifting consumer expectations and a fiercely competitive global marketplace and the need for agile and future-focused strategies will assist in navigating challenges such as rising living costs and business expenses.
“Strong leadership, proactive partnerships and fresh thinking are crucial factors in the region’s long-term success, and strategic investment is imperative to harness this growth sustainably.
“We are asking the tourism industry as well as stakeholders from all levels of government, community groups, businesses and anyone who has an interest in seeing our region develop to have an input.”
Destination 2045: Queensland’s Tourism Future
Consultation is now open for ‘Destination 2045: Queensland’s Tourism Future’, giving local tourism operators, businesses and community groups the opportunity to help shape a visionary 20-year plan.
The input is sought to ensure the plan reflects the voices of the region’s vibrant tourism industry and diverse communities.
Help guide the direction of Queensland’s visitor economy by sharing insights on ecotourism, Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games legacy, investment attraction, experience development, access and connectivity and events delivery.
More information including an online survey can be found at Destination 2045 website.
Feedback can also be given in person at consultation sessions to be held in Bundaberg and Gladstone.
Bundaberg
Date: Tuesday 4 February
Where: Bundaberg Multiplex Sport & Convention Centre, 1 Civic Avenue, Bundaberg
Time: 1.30 to 3 pm
Register at bit.ly/3Wm3AYb
Gladstone
Date: Wednesday 5 February
Where: Gladstone Engineering Alliance (Large Conference Room), Unit 4/69 Goondoon St, Gladstone Central
Time: 9 to 10.30 am
Register at https://bit.ly/4ahEOhD
Southern Great Barrier Reef Destination Management Plan workshops
Bundaberg Tourism will hold Destination Management Plan workshops for local stakeholders to have input into a collaborative roadmap as they build the 20-year plan.
The Destination Management Plan (DMP) is a critical strategic document that will unlock funding for the destination by identifying the game changers and the key strategic priorities that will set the destination up for success.
Tourism drives increased income, employment opportunities, and infrastructure development and to be truly impactful, the DMP must be guided by the entire of the community to outline and support key infrastructure and initiatives that will enable the long-term vision for the region.
Agnes and Town of 1770
Date: Monday 3 February
Where: 1770 Lagoons Central Apartment Resort, Captain Cook Drive, Agnes Water
Time: 1 to 4 pm
Register at https://bit.ly/40v2XOC
Bundaberg
Date: Tuesday 4 February
Where: Bundaberg Multiplex Sport & Convention Centre, 1 Civic Avenue, Bundaberg
Time: 10 am to 1 pm
Register at https://bit.ly/4fWYAjW
Gladstone
Date: Wednesday 5 February
Where: Gladstone Engineering Alliance (Large Conference Room), Unit 4/69 Goondoon St, Gladstone Central
Time: 11 am to 2 pm
Register at https://bit.ly/4gVUxFC
North Burnett (Monto)
When: Wednesday, 19 February
Where: Albert Hotel, 58 Newton Street, Monto
Time: 11 am to 3 pm
Register at https://bit.ly/3WnpD0H
Online Survey
An online survey is available for those who are unable to attend the sessions.
The survey aims to inform on visitor experience gaps and product opportunities, infrastructure needs and how the community engages with tourism.
The Bundaberg and Gladstone Regions’ Tourism Planning Survey can be accessed at https://bit.ly/4afijdn.
