Destination IQ Forum Program

The Destination IQ 2025 program invites people from all backgrounds to learn, connect and get involved in Queensland’s fastest-growing tourism sector.

Join us in driving the future of First Nations tourism in Queensland – we can’t wait to see you there!

Destination IQ Forum 2025 Program

SESSION
Registration and coffee
Arrive early to collect your delegate pass and grab a coffee while you connect with colleagues.
Welcome to Country
Shannon Ruska
Master of Ceremonies welcome
John-Paul Janke

SBS

QTIC Welcome
Rhonda Appo

Queensland Tourism Industry Council

Keynote Address
George Rose

No Limit Boxing

Q&A Faciliator: John-Paul Janke

SBS

Youth in Industry: Curating the experiences of tomorrow
Across Australia, a new generation of First Nations leaders is reshaping the tourism landscape — bringing creativity, innovation, and deep cultural connection to the forefront. From guiding visitors on Country to creating world-class events and artistic experiences, young First Nations people are redefining what tourism can look like when it is grounded in authenticity, culture, and future-thinking.
Arabella Walker

Wulli Wulli Artist

Braedan Kennedy

First Nations Dreamtime Knockout

George Reuben

First Nations Dreamtime Knockout

Evelyn Kimber

Tourism and Events Queensland

Moderator: Seleena Blackley

Queensland Tourism Industry Council

Update of the Queensland First Nations Tourism Plan
Cameron Costello

Queensland First Nations Tourism Council

Launch of the ATIC Connecting to Culture Toolkit
Rob Taylor

Western Australian Indigenous Tourism Operators Council

Tourism Minister's address
Hon. Andrew Powell MP

Minister for the Environment and Tourism and Minister for Science and Innovation

Morning tea
Culture in Demand: Turning cultural strength into tourism success
The discussion will highlight the power of authenticity in tourism — where cultural strength becomes not just an asset, but the foundation for sustainable business success and community empowerment.
Joey Laifoo

Island Stars

Johnny Murrison

Jarramali

Simon Thornelly

Saltwater Eco Tours

Moderator: Lisa Ruhanen

The University of Queensland

Strategic Indigenous Tourism Projects (SITP) presentation
Sarah Lovell

Queensland Government

Special Presentation: 'Guardians of Knowledge'
In this inspiring presentation, Dr Terri Janke—renowned Indigenous lawyer, author, and advocate—shares insights from her groundbreaking work leading Terri Janke and Company. As a pioneer in Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property (ICIP), Terri will explore how respecting and protecting Indigenous knowledge, culture, and creativity is central to empowering communities and driving ethical partnerships across industries. Through her work, she continues to champion frameworks that ensure First Nations peoples remain the rightful guardians of their knowledge and cultural heritage—on their terms and for future generations.
Dr Terri Janke

Terri Janke and Company

Lunch
National Perspectives: Strengthening First Nations tourism across Australia
First Nations tourism is one of Australia’s fastest-growing and most distinctive sectors — offering visitors an authentic connection to Country, culture, and community while driving economic empowerment for First Peoples.
Justin Mohamed
Rob Taylor

Western Australian Indigenous Tourism Operators Council

Leah Armstrong
Moderator: Sarah Gardiner

Griffith University

Independent Indigenous Tourism Operators of Queensland (IITOC) presentation
Linc Walker

Independent Indigenous Tourism Operators of Queensland

Birrunga Wiradyuri

Independent Indigenous Tourism Operators of Queensland

Queensland First Nations Tourism Council presentation
Cameron Costello

Queensland First Nations Tourism Council

Fraser Nai
Afternoon tea
Behind the Success: Insights from Queensland's award-winning operators
Join us for an engaging one-on-one conversation with an award-winning tourism operator as they share insights into what it takes to achieve excellence in the industry. Hear firsthand the journey, challenges, and success factors behind creating an award-winning tourism experience.
Patricia Bartlett

Cape York Peninsula Lodge

Moderator: Mary-Clare Power
Legacy, Culture and Recognition: Honouring the past, shaping the future
As Queensland prepares to host the 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games, conversations about legacy are shifting beyond infrastructure and medals to encompass culture, identity, and long-term impact. This panel brings together key voices shaping how the Games can honour and embed First Nations perspectives, foster genuine inclusion, and leave a lasting cultural and social legacy for generations to come.
Eugenie Buckley
David Williams

Gillimba

Erin Hatten

Brisbane 2032

Patrick Johnson

Sport Integrity Australia

Moderator: Cameron Costello

Queensland First Nations Tourism Council

Pip and Charles Award presentation
Rhonda Appo

Queensland Tourism Industry Council

Closing remarks
Rhonda Appo

Queensland Tourism Industry Council

Forum close
John-Paul Janke

SBS

Dandarri