Indigenous Champions Network


QTIC's Indigenous Champions Network was founded in 2008. Commencing with 16 tourism businesses, who voluntarily pledged a commitment to increasing the employment and representation of First Nations people within Queensland tourism. These companies practiced inclusive business and actively fostered a workplace culture that sought to increase the recruitment and participation of Indigenous people. 

By ensuring that First Nations people are active and valued contributors in the tourism industry, the Champions Network has been helping to affirm the critical importance of Indigenous tourism for more than a decade. The tourism industry looks to this network of Champions as industry leaders and advocates in the engagement of First Nations operators and employees. The Network are regularly called upon to participate in events and to provide input on relevant discussion papers that seek to increase Indigenous representation. 

While working towards an increase in the representation of Indigenous people in tourism, the Champions work collectively to identify potential opportunities, support workplace experiences, and invest in the development of resources that assist in the recruitment, employment, and retention of Indigenous people in Queensland's tourism industry. 

 

Join the Champions Network 


We are continually expanding the Network and are actively seeking businesses and support agencies who would like to join us in proactively supporting the involvement of Indigenous people in tourism. For more information, please contact our Indigenous Program Manager, Rhonda Appo on 07 3236 1445 or champions@qtic.com.au. 
 

Meet Our Champions!

 
  • Adam Jones, Experience Co
  • Alan Smith, Outback Aussie Tours
  • Anthony Corrie, Brisbane Lions
  • Brian Hennessy, Sunlover Reef Cruises
  • Cameron Costello, Costello Consultancy
  • Cassy Saunders, The BlackCard
  • Chern'ee Sutton, Contemporary Artist
  • Craig Quartermaine, National Indigenous Culinary Institute
  • David Hudson, Didgeralia
  • David Williams, GILIMBAA
  • Eddie Ruska, Spirits of the Red Sand
  • Emily Tanna, Compass Group Australia Pty Ltd
  • Greg Yong, Dreamworld
  • Hailey Brown, Vacayit
  • Joe Sproats, Platypus Wealth Institute
  • Johnny Murison, Jarramali Enterprises
  • Josh Hanley, Accor Hotels
  • Katie Lord, SeaLink QLD
  • Kylie-Lee Bradford, Kakadu Organics
  • Lauren Horner, Village Roadshow Theme Parks
  • Leanne Ruska, Spirits of the Red Sand
  • Lindsay Davies, National Trust Australia (Queensland)
  • Lloyd Mills, Australian Stockman's Hall of Fame
  • Matt Adams, The Star Entertainment Group
  • Michelle Thomson, Spirits of the Red Sand
  • Olivia Evans, Sandstone Park
  • Paul Morton, Novotel Surfers Paradise
  • Petina Tieman, Complete Business Solutions
  • Preston Campbell, Preston Campbell Foundation
  • Russell Boswell, Savannah Guides
  • Ryan Hanly, Travello
  • Serrin Carter, Outback Aussie Tours
  • Shannon Ruska, Tribal Experiences
  • Stephanie Parker, Southern Queensland Country Tourism
  • Tarragh Cunningham, Queensland Art Gallery
  • Tracy Kearney, Prestige Staffing Solutions
  • Violet Geesu, Sarina Russo Job Access
  • Willie Enoch-Tranby, Silver Lining Foundation Australia
 

Employee Network


In 2015, following on from the success of the Champions Network, an Employee Network was established to support Indigenous employees. 

With the support of The Star Entertainment Group, the Employee Network comprises Indigenous employees who are currently employed within Queensland's tourism sector and have a commitment towards encouraging the participation of new Indigenous employees. 

The Network provides peer-to-peer mentoring, a safe place to discuss relevant issues, and build strategies aimed at encouraging Indigenous people to enter the tourism industry. 

There are currently two chapters established under the Employee Network. Bringing together Indigenous employees who meet throughout the year to share ideas, opportunities, and strategies. 

North Queensland
South-East Queensland  

Join the Employee Network


Help build and be part of a dynamic and innovative network where you get to build the rules, share your ideas, energy and enthusiasm. Be part of a network where you get to build strategies to encourage more Indigenous people in the vibrant and diverse tourism sector. 

Talk to your employer on how they can support you to participate in this 'first of its kind' network to share your experiences in a safe and professional environment. 

For more information, please contact our Indigenous Program Manager, Rhonda Appo on 07 3236 1445 or champions@qtic.com.au.